Raphidiidae

plural noun

Raph·​i·​di·​idae

: a family of predatory insects (suborder Raphidiodea) remarkable for their long prothorax and elongate setiform ovipositor

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Raphidium, type genus (irregular from Greek rhaphid-, rhaphis needle + New Latin -ium) + -idae

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!