praying mantis

noun

: a large insect that eats other insects by holding them in its raised front legs

Full Definition of PRAYING MANTIS

: mantis; especially : a European mantis (Mantis religiosa) that has been introduced into the United States —called also praying mantid

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circa 1890

PRAYING MANTIS Defined for Kids

noun \ˌprā-iŋ-\

: a large usually green insect that feeds on other insects which are held in the raised front legs

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