pseudoscorpion

noun

pseu·​do·​scor·​pi·​on ˌsü-dō-ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of a widely distributed order (Pseudoscorpionida synonym Pseudoscorpiones) of tiny arachnids that have no caudal stinger and feed on tiny invertebrates (such as insects and mites)

Examples of pseudoscorpion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Paula Cushing, an evolutionary biologist who studies solifugids at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, says some research suggests the animals are most closely related to pseudoscorpions, while other work links solifugids to a group of mites. —Jason Bittel, Smithsonian, 9 Aug. 2017

The ancient invertebrate retains segments along its abdomen, more like archaic forms of arachnids such as the pseudoscorpions. —National Geographic, 30 Mar. 2016

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Pseudoscorpiones, from pseud- + Latin scorpion-, scorpio scorpion

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above