lepidoptera Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun moths and butterflies
    order Lepidoptera.
  2. noun insect that in the adult state has four wings more or less covered with tiny scales
    lepidopteron; lepidopterous insect; lepidopteran.

WordNet

Lep`i*dop"te*ra noun plural
Etymology
NL., fr. Gr. , , a scale + a feather, wind.
Definitions
  1. (Zoöl.) An order of insects, which includes the butterflies and moths. They have broad wings, covered with minute overlapping scales, usually brightly colored. ✍ They have a tubular proboscis, or haustellum, formed by the two slender maxillæ. The labial palpi are usually large, and the proboscis, when not in use, can be coiled up spirally between them. The mandibles are rudimentary. The larvæ, called caterpillars, are often brightly colored, and they commonly feed on leaves. The adults feed chiefly on the honey of flowers.

Webster 1913