clypeus

[klip-ee-uhs]

noun

plural

clypei 

1. the area of the facial wall of an insect's head between the labrum and the frons, usually separated from the latter by a groove.

clypeus

/ ˈklɪpɪəs, ˈklɪpɪˌeɪt /

noun

1. a cuticular plate on the head of some insects between the labrum and the frons

Other Word Forms

• clypeal adjective
• clypeate adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of clypeus¹

1825–35; < New Latin, special use of Latin clypeus, clipeus round shield

Word History and Origins

Origin of clypeus¹

C19: from New Latin, from Latin clipeus round shield

Example Sentences

The labrum and clypeus are developed as a single prolongation of the oral piece, not as a pair of appendages.

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The portion of the face bounded by this groove is called the clypeus.

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The patricians carried a clypeus, or shield, of such dimensions as to cover frequently the whole body, and by hiding himself behind it the wearer often escaped a hiding from the enemy.

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In all centipedes, except the Scutigeridae, the preantennal portion of the cephalite is sharply reflexed, ventrally forming an area called the clypeus.

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The labrum, or upper lip, is separated by a deep suture from the clypeus, and is trapezoidal in form.

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