: any of a genus (Pipistrellus of the family Vespertilionidae) of bats typically appearing in early evening and exhibiting erratic flight
especially : one (P. pipistrellus) of Eurasia and northern Africa

Examples of pipistrelle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to the team, these experiments show that Kuhl’s pipistrelles can navigate over several feet using echolocation alone. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 31 Oct. 2024 In the study, an international team of scientists conducted experiments with Kuhl’s pipistrelle (Pipistrellus kuhlii) bats that weigh less than an ounce. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from Italian pipistrello bat, alteration of vipistrello, ultimately from Latin vespertilion-, vespertilio — more at vespertilian

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pipistrelle was in 1771

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Cite this Entry

“Pipistrelle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pipistrelle. Accessed 18 Mar. 2025.

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