neuropteran

noun

neu·rop·ter·an nu̇-ˈräp-tə-rən

nyu̇-

: any of an order (Neuroptera) of usually net-winged insects that include the lacewings and ant lions

neuropteran adjective

neuropterous

nu̇-ˈräp-tə-rəs

nyu̇-

adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Neuroptera, order name (from Greek neûron "sinew, tendon, nerve" + -o- -o- + -ptera, neuter plural of -pteros "having wings [of the given kind]," adjective derivative of pterón "feather, wing") + -an entry 1 — more at nerve entry 1, feather entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of neuropteran was circa 1842

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Neuropteran.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neuropteran. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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