elytron

noun

el·​y·​tron ˈe-lə-ˌträn How to pronounce elytron (audio)
plural elytra ˈe-lə-trə How to pronounce elytron (audio)
: one of the anterior wings in beetles and some other insects that serve to protect the posterior pair of functional wings

Illustration of elytron

Illustration of elytron
  • elytron E

Examples of elytron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The creatures use the edge of the elytron and abdominal movements to fold the wing along creased lines. Jason Daley, Smithsonian, 19 May 2017 The creatures use the edge of the elytron and abdominal movements to fold the wing along creased lines. Jason Daley, Smithsonian, 19 May 2017

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek, sheath, wing cover, from eilyein to roll, wrap — more at voluble

First Known Use

1774, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of elytron was in 1774

Dictionary Entries Near elytron

Cite this Entry

“Elytron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elytron. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

elytron

noun
el·​y·​tron ˈel-ə-ˌträn How to pronounce elytron (audio)
variants also elytrum
-trəm
plural elytra -trə How to pronounce elytron (audio)
: one of the thick modified front wings in beetles and some other insects that protect the hind pair of wings that are used for flying
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!