Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic order of insects: "order coleoptera" is the scientific name for the biological order comprising all beetles. It is characterized by insects having hardened forewings (elytra) that form a protective shell over their membranous hind wings and abdomen.

Usage

• "Order coleoptera" is used in formal, scientific contexts such as biology, entomology, and taxonomy. It is not used in everyday conversation.
• It functions as a singular, proper noun referring to the entire group.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The order coleoptera is one of the largest groups of animals on Earth.
  • Entomologists specialize in studying insects within the order coleoptera.

Advanced Usage

• In Taxonomic Hierarchy: The term is used to classify organisms. For example: Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Arthropoda, Class: Insecta, Order: Coleoptera.
• As a Subject of Study: Used in academic writing and research about beetle evolution, morphology, or ecology.

Variants and Related Words

• Coleoptera (n): The more common shorthand for the full term "order coleoptera".
• Coleopteran (n/adj): (Noun) An individual beetle. (Adjective) Relating to beetles.
  • The coleopteran species diversity is astounding.
• Beetle (n): The common English name for any insect in the order coleoptera.

Synonyms

• Beetles: The common, non-scientific synonym for the members of this order.

Notes on Meaning

• This term has only one specific, scientific meaning. It does not have different everyday meanings, idioms, or phrasal verbs.

Noun

1. beetles