scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

1

a

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

b

Scorpion : 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

If approved, a scorpion’s venom could become commonplace in the operating room. — Steve Midway, STAT, 16 July 2026

For homeowners in Truly Nolen’s service area dealing with regional pests such as scorpions or desert termites, its 4 Seasons model and localized expertise give it an edge over the national chains. — Jay Sparks, USA Today, 15 July 2026

The bat team regularly visits the bat boxes to assess the bats, keep up with the babies and make sure the boxes aren’t attracting uninvited visitors like wasps and scorpions. — Jenny Staletovich, Miami Herald, 14 July 2026

Late in the evening on July 14, look low in the southern sky for a group of stars shaped like a big hook or scorpion tail (aka Scorpius). — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 9 July 2026

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