Coleoptera noun pl. [kɒlɪ'ɒpt(ǝ)rǝ] Rarely in sing. -ron [-rǝn]. M18.
[mod. Latin, from Greek koleopteros sheath-winged, from koleos sheath + pteron wing: see -A³.]
(Members of) a large order of insects having the front wings modified as hard wing-cases, and comprising the beetles (including weevils).

■ coleopteran noun & adjective (a member) of the order Coleoptera M19.

■ coleopterist noun a person who studies beetles M19.

■ coleopteroid adjective resembling or akin to a member of the order Coleoptera L19.

■ coleopterous adjective belonging or pertaining to the order Coleoptera L18.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲