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

In the Intermountain and Southwest regions, heavier rainfall could push scorpions and spiders indoors in search of drier conditions, while continued heat and moisture may increase mosquito activity. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 Sep. 2026

The pocket-sized UV flashlight can detect what the naked eye can’t, including dry urine stains, bed bugs, scorpions, and more. — Aly Walansky, Travel + Leisure, 22 Sep. 2026

There was Colombia’s René Higuita, who turned goalkeeping into performance art and gave the world the scorpion kick save. — Asli Pelit, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Stapley adds, invoking the fable of the scorpion and the frog. — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 19 Aug. 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