lepidopterous

or lep·i·dop·ter·al

[ lep-i-dop-ter-uhs ]

adjective

1. belonging or pertaining to the Lepidoptera, an order of insects comprising the butterflies, moths, and skippers, that in the adult state have four membranous wings more or less covered with small scales.

Other Words From

• nonlep·i·dopter·al adjective
• nonlep·i·dopter·ous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lepidopterous¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; Lepidopter(a) + -ous

Example Sentences

Many rare Lepidopterous larv may be obtained by the use of the beating net and by beating foliage over an umbrella.

From Project Gutenberg

Some Lepidopterous larv even (Alucita pentadactyla, Callimorpha rosea, &c.) assume the pupa state within their last skin.

From Project Gutenberg

The angular lepidopterous ones, however, are more gaily decorated.

From Project Gutenberg

Lepidopterous pup, however, are not excluded from the last skin of the larv with this hard covering.

From Project Gutenberg

Grape vines are subject to the attacks of many lepidopterous insects.

From Project Gutenberg