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

Gaia sent a giant scorpion to stop Orion, who was stung and died. —Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Oct. 2025

As Astrology News reports, the scorpion is associated with Tlāhuizcalpantēcuhtli, a deity representing Venus, the morning star, who is directly affiliated with rainfall and fertility. —Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 11 Oct. 2025

Snakes and scorpions would often find their way in, making for an even more dreadful experience. —Paige Moore, AZCentral.com, 3 Oct. 2025

And scorpions, what about scorpions? —T. Coraghessan Boyle, New Yorker, 14 Sep. 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