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Lepidopteran: meaning, definitions and examples

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lepidopteran

 

[ ˌlepəˈdɒptəːrən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

insect classification

A lepidopteran is an insect belonging to the order Lepidoptera, which includes butterflies and moths. These insects are characterized by their large, scaly wings and are known for their metamorphosis from larva to adult forms. They play important roles in ecosystems as pollinators and as a food source for other animals.

Synonyms

butterfly, insect, moth

Examples of usage

  • The lepidopteran population is crucial for pollinating flowers.
  • Many lepidopterans undergo complete metamorphosis during their life cycle.
  • Lepidopterans are studied for their role in biodiversity.

Translations

Translations of the word "lepidopteran" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lepidóptero

🇮🇳 तितली वर्ग का जीव

🇩🇪 Schmetterling

🇮🇩 lepidopteran

🇺🇦 ліпідоптер

🇵🇱 lepidoopter

🇯🇵 鱗翅目の昆虫

🇫🇷 lépidoptère

🇪🇸 lepidóptero

🇹🇷 kelebekler sınıfı

🇰🇷 나비목

🇸🇦 الحشرات الحرشفية

🇨🇿 motýl

🇸🇰 motýle

🇨🇳 鳞翅目

🇸🇮 metulj

🇮🇸 fjölbreytni

🇰🇿 құрт құйрықты

🇬🇪 ლეპიდოპტერები

🇦🇿 lepidoptera

🇲🇽 lepidóptero

Etymology

The term 'lepidopteran' is derived from the Greek words 'lepidos', meaning 'scale', and 'ptera', meaning 'wings'. This name is fitting as members of this order are distinguished by the tiny scales that cover their wings and bodies, giving them their vivid colors and patterns. The order Lepidoptera was first described in the 18th century by the naturalist Carl Linnaeus, who categorized various species of butterflies and moths. Since then, the study of lepidopterans has expanded greatly, with researchers exploring their vast diversity, complex life cycles, and ecological significance. Lepidopterans are not only a popular subject of study in entomology but also contribute to agriculture and horticulture as important pollinators.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,139, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.