Definition

Noun: A mecopteran is any insect belonging to the order Mecoptera. These are carnivorous insects characterized by elongated bodies, and in many species, males have distinctive, scorpion-like upturned abdomens. They are also known for their role in the study of insect evolution.

Usage

The word "mecopteran" is a scientific term used primarily in entomology (the study of insects). It refers to the insect itself. - The biologist studied the mecopteran under a microscope. - Mecopteran fossils provide important clues about insect evolution.

Advanced Usage

• The order Mecoptera is sometimes considered to include the fleas (order Siphonaptera), which are thought to have evolved from mecopteran-like ancestors.
• The most familiar mecopterans are the scorpionflies, named for the appearance of the male's genitalia.

Variants and Related Words

• Mecoptera (noun): The scientific order name to which mecopterans belong.
• Scorpionfly (noun): A common name for many insects in the family Panorpidae within the order Mecoptera.

Synonyms

• Scorpionfly (for common species within the order)

Different Meanings

The word "mecopteran" has only one specific meaning: an insect of the order Mecoptera. There are no common idiomatic or figurative uses.

Noun

1. any of various carnivorous insects of the order Mecoptera