coleoptera

plural noun

co·​le·​op·​tera ˌkō-lē-ˈäp-tə-rə How to pronounce coleoptera (audio)
: insects that are beetles
coleopterist noun
coleopterous adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, ultimately from Greek koleon sheath + pteron wing — more at feather

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of coleoptera was in 1771

Dictionary Entries Near coleoptera

Cite this Entry

“Coleoptera.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coleoptera. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

coleoptera

plural noun
co·​le·​op·​tera ˌkō-lē-ˈäp-tə-rə How to pronounce coleoptera (audio)
: insects that are beetles

Medical Definition

coleoptera

noun plural
co·​le·​op·​te·​ra ˌkō-lē-ˈäp-tə-rə How to pronounce coleoptera (audio)
1
capitalized : the largest order of insects comprising the beetles and weevils and being distinguished by a pair of forewings that are usually hard and rigid, are never used for flight, and serve as a protective covering for the delicate flight wings and the upper surface of the abdomen
2
: insects that are beetles
coleopteran noun or adjective
coleopterist noun
coleopterous adjective
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