elytron

[ el-i-tron ]

/ ˈɛl ɪˌtrɒn /

noun, plural el·y·tra [el-i-truh] /ˈɛl ɪ trə/.

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

Nearby words

elysium, elysée, elytis, elytra, elytroid, elytron, elytrum, elzevir, em, em dash, em pica

Origin of elytron

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

Also called wing case, wing cover.

Related forms

el·y·trous

[el-i-truh s] /ˈɛl ɪ trəs/, adjective

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for elytron

Sometimes the glands are found beneath the disk of the elytron, opening by pores on the surface.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 6|Various
Axis: a small process at base of elytron, upon which it turns.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology|John. B. Smith
Complicant: when one elytron extends over the other and partially covers it.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology|John. B. Smith

British Dictionary definitions for elytron

elytron

elytrum (ˈɛlɪtrəm)

/ (ˈɛlɪˌtrɒn) /

noun plural -tra (-trə)

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

Derived Forms

elytroid or elytrous, adjective

Word Origin for elytron

C18: from Greek elutron sheath, covering

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Science definitions for elytron

elytron

[ ĕl′ĭ-trŏn′ ]

Plural elytra

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