elytron

American  

[el-i-tron] / ˈɛl ɪˌtrɒn /

noun

plural

elytra

1. 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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elytron British  

/ ˈɛlɪˌtrɒn, ˈɛlɪtrəm /

noun

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

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elytron Scientific  

/ 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.

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Other Word Forms

• elytroid adjective
• elytrous adjective

Etymology

Origin of elytron

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

Example Sentences

Along the sutural border of the elytron, the chitinous lamella forms a tubular space within which are numerous glands.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 6 "Cockaigne" to "Columbus, Christopher" by Various

It is black with a stripe of yellow on each elytron.

From The Gutenberg Webster's Unabridged Dictionary Section T, U, V, and W by Project Gutenberg

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

From Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology by Smith, John. B.

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

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 6 "Cockaigne" to "Columbus, Christopher" by Various

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

From Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology by Smith, John. B.