elytron
noun
one of the pair of hardened forewings of certain insects, as beetles, forming a protective covering for the posterior or flight wings.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The elytra, which formerly covered the wings, are protective and don't help with flight.
From Science Daily ● May 15, 2024
Of these, seven responded to bat attack sequences by swinging their elytra slightly toward the back.
From Science Daily ● May 15, 2024
The scientists discovered that the way the DIB’s elytra are made and connected give it extra special strength.
From NewsForKids.net ● Feb. 23, 2024
One early idea that was proposed as an explanation is that beetles have hardened forewings, called elytra, that form a protective capsule over their flight wings.
From Scientific American ● Sep. 27, 2023
The pronotum and elytra are often adorned with bright colours or metallic lustre, and marked with stripes or spots.
From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 6 "Cockaigne" to "Columbus, Christopher" by Various
