co·le·op·ter·an (k  l - p t r-n, kl-) also co·le·op·ter·on (-t-rn)n. Any of numerous insects of the order Coleoptera, characterized by forewings modified to form tough protective covers for the membranous hind wings and including the beetles, weevils, and fireflies. adj. Of, relating to, or belonging to the order Coleoptera. [From New Latin Coleoptera, order name, from Greek koleopteros, sheath-winged : koleon, sheath; see kel-1 in Indo-European roots + pteron, wing; see pet- in Indo-European roots.] co le·opter·ous (-tr-s) adj. |
coleopteran [ˌkɒlɪˈɒptərən]
n also coleopteron
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Animals) any of the insects of the cosmopolitan order Coleoptera, in which the forewings are modified to form shell-like protective elytra. The order includes the beetles and weevils
adj also coleopterous
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Animals) of, relating to, or belonging to the order Coleoptera
[from New Latin Coleoptera, from Greek koleoptera, from koleopteros sheath-winged, from koleon sheath + pteron wing]
| coleopteran (kl-ptr-n, kl-) Any of numerous insects of the order Coleoptera, characterized by forewings modified to form tough protective covers for the membranous hind wings. Coleopterans include the beetles, weevils, and fireflies. |
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