Lycaena

noun

Ly·​cae·​na

līˈsēnə

: a genus (the type of the family Lycaenidae) comprising small slender butterflies with the upper surface of the wings usually metallic blue, green, or copper and the undersurface dull or cryptic

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek lykaina, feminine of lykos wolf

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