Epicauta

noun

Ep·​i·​cau·​ta

ˌepəˈkȯtə

: a cosmopolitan genus of blister beetles that feed on various cultivated plants as adults and that as larvae are predacious in egg masses or nests of insects

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek epikautē, feminine of epikautos burned at the tip, from epikaiein to burn on the surface, burn at the top, from epi- + kaiein to burn

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now