brachypterous

adjective bra·chyp·ter·ous \bra-ˈkip-tə-rəs\

Definition of BRACHYPTEROUS

: having rudimentary or abnormally small wings <brachypterous insects>

Greek brachypteros, from brachy- + pteron wing — more at feather

First Known Use: 1842

Next Word in the Dictionary: BrachyrhinusPrevious Word in the Dictionary: brachypterismAll Words Near: brachypterous

What made you want to look up brachypterous? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears