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DictionaryscorpionStinging arachnid
noun / proper noun

scorpion

SKOR-pee-un/ˈskɔːrpiən/

A pincer-bearing arachnid with a stinging tail.

The scorpion spreads its pincers and arches its tail overhead.

A single scorpion in an elevated three-quarter view, with its paired pincers spread, eight walking legs visible, and segmented tail arched over its back to expose the bulbous venom-bearing tip and curved stinger.
Etymology
scorpionGreekscorpion

Greek skorpios already named the arachnid distinguished by its pincers and painful tail sting. The English word preserves that concrete animal meaning.

In context

Info Hub2:40
The act of stinging is a swift and precise maneuver. When threatened or attacking prey, the scorpion arches its tail over its body, positioning the stinger in a ready to strike position.
How Does Scorpion Sting | The Science Behind It Explained

More examples

  • We check our boots for scorpions before putting them on.
  • A scorpion uses its pincers to hold prey.
  • In astrology, the scorpion represents the zodiac sign Scorpio.

Forms

scorpion · scorpions