'Scutellum' definitions:

Definition of 'Scutellum'

From: GCIDE
  • Scutellum \Scu*tel"lum\, n.; pl. Scutella. [NL., neut. dim. of L. scutum a shield.]
  • 1. (Bot.) A rounded apothecium having an elevated rim formed of the proper thallus, the fructification of certain lichens. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Zool.) (a) The third of the four pieces forming the upper part of a thoracic segment of an insect. It follows the scutum, and is followed by the small postscutellum; a scutella. See Thorax. (b) One of the transverse scales on the tarsi and toes of birds; a scutella. [1913 Webster]