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elytron

noun
el·​y·​tron | \ ˈe-lə-ˌträn How to pronounce elytron (audio) \
plural elytra\ ˈe-​lə-​trə How to pronounce elytra (audio) \

Definition of elytron

: one of the anterior wings in beetles and some other insects that serve to protect the posterior pair of functional wings

Illustration of elytron

Illustration of elytron

elytron E

Examples of elytron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 The creatures use the edge of the elytron and abdominal movements to fold the wing along creased lines. — Jason Daley, Smithsonian, "The Origami-Like Folds of Ladybug Wings Could Lead to Better Umbrellas," 19 May 2017 The creatures use the edge of the elytron and abdominal movements to fold the wing along creased lines. — Jason Daley, Smithsonian, "The Origami-Like Folds of Ladybug Wings Could Lead to Better Umbrellas," 19 May 2017

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

First Known Use of elytron

1774, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for elytron

New Latin, from Greek, sheath, wing cover, from eilyein to roll, wrap — more at voluble

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The first known use of elytron was in 1774

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