elytron

[ el-i-tron ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, plural el·y·tra [el, -i-tr, uh].

one of the pair of hardened forewings of certain insects, as beetles, forming a protective covering for the posterior or flight wings.

elytron

/ ˈɛlɪˌtrɒn; ˈɛlɪtrəm /

either of the horny front wings of beetles and some other insects, which cover and protect the hind wings

elytron

/ ĕl′ĭ-trŏn′ /

, Plural elytra

Either of the modified forewings of a beetle or related insect that encase the thin hind wings used in flight.

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Origin of elytron¹

1745–55; < New Latin < Greek élytron a covering

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Origin of elytron¹

C18: from Greek elutron sheath, covering

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It is black, hairy, with a large yellowish spot at the base of each elytron, and two transverse bands of the same colour.

Complicant: when one elytron extends over the other and partially covers it.

Axis: a small process at base of elytron, upon which it turns.

Sometimes the glands are found beneath the disk of the elytron, opening by pores on the surface.

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