insectivore

noun

in·sec·ti·vore | \ in-ˈsek-tə-ˌvȯr

Definition of insectivore

1 : any of an order (Insectivora) of small usually nocturnal mammals (such as moles, shrews, and hedgehogs) that feed mainly on insects

2 : an insectivorous plant or animal

Examples of insectivore in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These animals play an important role in the ecosystem as insectivores, pollinators and seed dispersers, the authors wrote. — Kimberly Hickok, Fox News, "Scientists discover a sixth species of Ebola virus — in bats," 27 Aug. 2018 The researchers live-trapped 12 shrews in June 2014, X-raying the tiny insectivores and implanting them with microchips. — Jason Daley, Smithsonian, "Shrews Shrink Their Skulls and Brains for the Winter," 25 Oct. 2017 Most small lizards are insectivores, which often eat every day. — National Geographic, "Colorful, Venomous Lizard Is Declining Due to Climate Change," 22 July 2016 Reptilian, amphibian, and mammalian insectivores could have also heard A. musicus’ song. — Brandon Keim, WIRED, "Audio: 165-Million-Year-Old Cricket Song Comes Back to Life," 6 Feb. 2012

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