elytron
[ el-i-tron ]
/ ˈɛl ɪˌtrɒn /
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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.
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Also called wing case, wing cover.
Origin of elytron
1745–55; <New Latin <Greek élytron a covering
OTHER WORDS FROM elytron
el·y·trous [el-i-truhs], /ˈɛl ɪ trəs/, adjectiveWords nearby elytron
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
Example sentences from the Web for elytron
It is black, hairy, with a large yellowish spot at the base of each elytron, and two transverse bands of the same colour.
The Insect World|Louis FiguierComplicant: when one elytron extends over the other and partially covers it.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology|John. B. SmithAxis: a small process at base of elytron, upon which it turns.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology|John. B. SmithSometimes the glands are found beneath the disk of the elytron, opening by pores on the surface.
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 of elytron
elytroid or elytrous, adjectiveWord Origin for elytron
C18: from Greek elutron sheath, covering
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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Scientific 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.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
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