Dendroctonus

noun

Den·​droc·​to·​nus

-ˈdräktənəs

: a genus of small bark beetles that are especially destructive to mature coniferous trees and that have a large prothorax, short clubbed elbowed antennae, serrated tibiae, and spiny elytra

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from dendr- + Greek ktonos murder; from their destructiveness

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now