scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

1

a

: any of an order (Scorpionida) of nocturnal arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip

b

capitalized : scorpio

2

: a scourge probably studded with metal

3

: something that incites to action like the sting of an insect

the scorpions of absolute necessity

—Arnold Bennett

Illustration of scorpion

• scorpion 1a

Examples of scorpion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In this case, the team explored scorpion venom for potential bioactive molecules—substances that affect living tissues in a beneficial way, such as fighting infections or cancer. —Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025

One evening, a young man named Francis took us on a walk and found rainbow beetles, scorpions, a possum and a 3-foot-long caiman. —The New York Times, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 June 2025

Emily’s investigative, direct, and honest demeanor aligns her with the Water sign since the scorpion is good at solving mysteries and uncovering facts. —Lisa Stardust, People.com, 8 June 2025

The beautiful undulating canyons have been sculpted by water and time and offer a peacefulness rarely found elsewhere – but watch out for the rattlesnakes and scorpions. —Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 7 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French eskorpiun, from Latin scorpion-, scorpio, from Greek skorpios

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing scorpion

• scorpion fish
• scorpion fly
• sea scorpion
• water scorpion
• whip scorpion

Kids Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order of invertebrates that are arachnids and that have a long jointed body and a slender tail with a poisonous stinger at the end

Medical Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order (Scorpionida) of arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip