elytron

elytron Definition

ely·tron (el′i trän′)

noun pl. elytra -·tra (-trə)

either of the front pair of modified, usually thickened, wings in certain insects, esp. beetles, which act as protective covering for the rear wings

also elytrum el′y·trum (-trəm)

Etymology: ModL < Gr a covering, sheath < IE *welutrom < base *wel-, to roll > walk

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