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

The area around the seasonal stream also supports frogs, crickets and beetles, all potential prey for a scorpion this size. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 10 Mar. 2026

Scientists referenced research suggesting that scorpion exoskeletons can fluoresce under ultraviolet light and may function as a light-sensing surface. —Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 10 Mar. 2026

The scorpions were found in a transitional forest zone where secondary forest meets older growth, a type of edge environment that often supports high concentrations of small invertebrates. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 10 Mar. 2026

Dominic Solanke pulled the scoreboard back from 2-0 down to 2-2, his second goal a fabulous scorpion kick (above). —Phil Hay, New York Times, 2 Feb. 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