scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

1

a

: any of an order (Scorpiones) of nocturnal arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip

b

Scorpion : scorpio

2

: a scourge probably studded with metal

3

: something that incites to action like the sting of an insect

… the scorpions of absolute necessity …

—Arnold Bennett

Illustration of scorpion

• scorpion 1a

Examples of scorpion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Another common occurrence is when scorpions are displaced by new construction. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 27 Oct. 2026

Related Articles Jenner joined her daughter in an equally dramatic look, sporting a black and white velvet hooded cape with two scorpions embroidered across the chest. — Erin Wisti, Footwear News, 25 Oct. 2026

Seventeen of the proteins passed muster, collectively binding to four of the five scorpion toxins the team had hoped to target. — Robert Hart, The Verge, 22 Oct. 2026

The strongest candidates attached to a Mexican scorpion toxin with single-digit nanomolar affinity, indicating a tight molecular interaction. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 20 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French eskorpiun, from Latin scorpion-, scorpio, from Greek skorpios

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing scorpion

• scorpion fish
• scorpion fly
• sea scorpion
• water scorpion
• whip scorpion

Kids Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order of invertebrates that are arachnids and that have a long jointed body and a slender tail with a poisonous stinger at the end

Medical Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order (Scorpiones) of arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip