Belostomatidae

plural noun

Bel·​o·​sto·​mat·​i·​dae
ˌbe-lə-stō-ˈma-tə-ˌdē
: a family of large predaceous water bugs with piercing and sucking mouthparts that may be very destructive to young fishes

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Belostomat-, Belostoma, type genus (from Greek belos dart + New Latin -stomat-, -stoma) + -idae

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

Dictionary Entries Near Belostomatidae

Cite this Entry

“Belostomatidae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Belostomatidae. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!