elytron

[ el-i-tron ]

noun

, plural el·y·tra [el, -i-tr, uh].

1. one of the pair of hardened forewings of certain insects, as beetles, forming a protective covering for the posterior or flight wings.

elytron

/ ˈɛlɪˌtrɒn; ˈɛlɪtrəm /

noun

1. either of the horny front wings of beetles and some other insects, which cover and protect the hind wings

elytron

/ ĕl′ĭ-trŏn′ /

, Plural elytra

1. Either of the modified forewings of a beetle or related insect that encase the thin hind wings used in flight.

Derived Forms

• ˈelyˌtroid, adjective

Other Words From

• el·y·trous [el, -i-tr, uh, s], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of elytron¹

1745–55; < New Latin < Greek élytron a covering

Word History and Origins

Origin of elytron¹

C18: from Greek elutron sheath, covering

Example Sentences

It is black, hairy, with a large yellowish spot at the base of each elytron, and two transverse bands of the same colour.

From Project Gutenberg

Complicant: when one elytron extends over the other and partially covers it.

From Project Gutenberg

Axis: a small process at base of elytron, upon which it turns.

From Project Gutenberg

Sometimes the glands are found beneath the disk of the elytron, opening by pores on the surface.

From Project Gutenberg