elytron

noun el·y·tron \ˈe-lə-ˌträn\

plural el·y·tra\-trə\

Definition of ELYTRON

: one of the anterior wings in beetles and some other insects that serve to protect the posterior pair of functional wings

See elytron defined for kids

New Latin, from Greek, sheath, wing cover, from eilyein to roll, wrap — more at voluble

First Known Use: 1774

Next Word in the Dictionary: elytrophorePrevious Word in the Dictionary: elytroidAll Words Near: elytron

What made you want to look up elytron? 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