Neuroptera noun pl. [njʊǝ'rɒpt(ǝ)rǝ] Also neuroptera. M18.
[mod. Latin, from NEURO- + Greek pteron wing: see -A³.]
(Members of) an order of insects (including lacewings and ant-lions) having biting mouthparts and two pairs of leaf-shaped transparent wings with numerous veins, freq. held over the back like a roof when at rest.

■ neuropter noun (rare) = neuropteran noun: only in 19.

■ neuropteran noun a neuropterous insect M19.

■ neuropterous adjective of or pertaining to the Neuroptera E19.

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