lepidopteran

[ lep-i-dop-ter-uhn ]

adjective

1. lepidopterous.

noun

1. a lepidopterous insect.

lepidopteran

/ ˌlɛpɪˈdɒptərən /

noun

1. any of numerous insects of the order Lepidoptera, typically having two pairs of wings covered with fragile scales, mouthparts specialized as a suctorial proboscis, and caterpillars as larvae: comprises the butterflies and moths

adjective

1. of, relating to, or belonging to the order Lepidoptera

lepidopteran

/ lĕp′ĭ-dŏp′tər-ən /

1. Any of various insects of the order Lepidoptera, characterized by four large, flat, membranous wings covered with small scales. The larvae of lepidopterans are caterpillars. Lepidopterans include butterflies, moths, and skippers.

Other Words From

• nonlep·i·dopter·an adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of lepidopteran¹

First recorded in 1850–55; Lepidopter(a) + -an

Word History and Origins

Origin of lepidopteran¹

C19: from New Latin lepidoptera, from lepido- + Greek pteron wing