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pseudoscorpion

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

Definition of pseudoscorpion

: 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)

Recent Examples of pseudoscorpion from 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, "Camel Spiders Are Fast, Furious and Horrifically Fascinating," 9 Aug. 2017
The ancient invertebrate retains segments along its abdomen, more like archaic forms of arachnids such as the pseudoscorpions.

— National Geographic, "Creepy New Fossil Shows the Dawn of Spiders," 30 Mar. 2016

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

Origin and Etymology of pseudoscorpion

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

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1835

in the meaning defined above

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Learn More about pseudoscorpion

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pseudoscorpion

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