pipistrelle

American  

[pip-uh-strel, pip-uh-strel] / ˌpɪp əˈstrɛl, ˈpɪp əˌstrɛl /

noun

1. any of numerous insectivorous bats of the genus Pipistrellus, especially P. pipistrellus of Europe and Asia.

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pipistrelle British  

/ ˌpɪpɪˈstrɛl /

noun

1. any of numerous small brownish insectivorous bats of the genus Pipistrellus, occurring in most parts of the world: family Vespertilionidae

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Etymology

Origin of pipistrelle

1775–85; < French < Italian pipistrello, variant of vipistrello ≪ Latin vespertīliōn- (stem of vespertīliō ) bat. See vespertilionine

Example Sentences

This hoverfly migrates across Europe as far as the slopes of Switzerland, where they become prey for soprano pipistrelle bats.

From National Geographic • Oct. 2, 2023

Some vanishings have inspired public outcry, such as the 2016 extinction declaration for the tiny Christmas Island pipistrelle bat species, last seen in 2009.

From Reuters • Dec. 23, 2022

A pipistrelle bat set a new record for the longest-known bat migration.

From Scientific American • Jul. 9, 2022

The Nathusius’ pipistrelle is found across Europe from the U.K. to Asia Minor.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 7, 2021

The last group, according to the system adopted by Prof. Max Weber, is that of the Vespertilionidae, which includes such typical bats as the pipistrelle, the noctule, and the long-eared species.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 2 "Chicago, University of" to "Chiton" by Various