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alate

adjective
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\ ˈā-ˌlāt How to pronounce alate (audio) \

Definition of alate

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: having wings or a winglike part

alate

noun

Definition of alate (Entry 2 of 2)

: a winged insect (such as an ant or termite) of a kind having winged and wingless forms

Examples of alate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web: Noun The alates flying from their nests can travel up to 300 yards. — Mark Schleifstein, NOLA.com, "A major Formosan termite swarm in Metairie on Monday night," 22 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'alate.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of alate

Adjective

1661, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1941, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for alate

Adjective

Latin alatus, from ala

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Cite this Entry

“Alate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alate. Accessed 7 Mar. 2021.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alate

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