'Lepidoptera' definitions:
Definition of 'Lepidoptera'
(from WordNet)
noun
Moths and butterflies [syn: Lepidoptera, order Lepidoptera]
Definition of 'Lepidoptera'
From: GCIDE
- Lepidoptera \Lep`i*dop"te*ra\ (-d[o^]p"t[-e]*r[.a]), n. pl. [NL., fr. Gr. lepi`s -i`dos, a scale + ptero`n a feather, wing.] (Zool.) An order of insects, which includes the butterflies and moths. They have broad wings, covered with minute overlapping scales, usually brightly colored. [1913 Webster]
- Note: They have a tubular proboscis, or haustellum, formed by the two slender maxill[ae]. 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 larv[ae], called caterpillars, are often brightly colored, and they commonly feed on leaves. The adults feed chiefly on the honey of flowers. [1913 Webster] Lepidopteral