Definition

Noun: A primitive, winged insect with a flattened body. The aquatic, gilled larvae are carnivorous and live beneath stones in streams. The adult insects are often used as bait by fishermen.

Usage

This is a scientific term used primarily in entomology (the study of insects) and by fly fishermen. It refers to insects belonging to the order Plecoptera, commonly known as stoneflies. - The biologist studied the life cycle of the plecopteran. - An experienced angler knows that a plecopteran imitation can be very effective.

Advanced Usage

• As a collective term: The word can be used to refer to the entire order of insects.
  • The stream's health was assessed by surveying its plecopteran population.

Variants and Related Words

• Plecoptera (n): The taxonomic order to which plecopterans belong.
• Stonefly (n): The common name for a plecopteran.

Synonyms

• Stonefly

Different Meanings

This word has a single, specific zoological meaning. It does not have other common definitions.

Noun

1. primitive winged insect with a flattened body; used as bait by fishermen; aquatic gilled larvae are carnivorous and live beneath stones