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

Other animals living inside the cave include centipedes, terrestrial isopods (roly-polies), pseudoscorpions, mites, scorpions, and beetles, among others, according to the researchers. —Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 18 Nov. 2025

Customs inspectors found iguanas, pythons, tegus and scorpions. —Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 13 Nov. 2025

Might as well spike their food with scorpion venom. —David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 13 Nov. 2025

An ambulance was called to respond to someone with a scorpion sting and another with a knee injury, according to radio traffic. —City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Nov. 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 (Scorpiones) of arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip