Elytron (Noun)
Meaning
Either of the horny front wings in beetles and some other insects which cover and protect the functional hind wings.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The beetle's elytron was a beautiful shade of iridescent blue that reflected the sunlight as it moved.
- In some beetles, the elytron is used for defensive purposes, such as hissing sounds produced by vibrating it.
- A close inspection of the insect's body revealed that its elytron was damaged, leaving its hind wings vulnerable.
- The scientist carefully lifted the beetle's elytron to examine the delicate hind wings beneath.
- When the beetle was in flight, its elytron was raised, exposing the large, functional hind wings underneath.