teneral

adjective

ten·​er·​al

ˈtenərəl

: of, relating to, or constituting a state of the imago of an insect immediately after molting during which it is soft and immature in coloring

Word History

Etymology

Latin tener tender, young + English -al

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