mouthpart

noun

mouth·​part ˈmau̇th-ˌpärt How to pronounce mouthpart (audio)
: a structure or appendage near the mouth (as of an insect) especially when adapted for use in gathering or eating food

Examples of mouthpart in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) has piercing-sucking mouthparts with a straw-like stylet that sucks plant juices. oregonlive, 24 June 2023 Ticks attach themselves to the skin of their host, using specialized mouthparts to pierce the skin and feed on blood. Tiffany Acosta arizona Republic, The Arizona Republic, 23 June 2023 When ladybugs do bite, however, their mouthparts are not strong enough to break the skin. Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 26 May 2023 The best Thermacell mosquito repellents are designed to keep those disease-carrying insects and their razor-sharp mouthparts far away. John Sass, Field & Stream, 11 Apr. 2023 See all Example Sentences for mouthpart 

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mouthpart was in 1799

Dictionary Entries Near mouthpart

Cite this Entry

“Mouthpart.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mouthpart. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

mouthpart

noun
mouth·​part ˈmau̇th-ˌpärt How to pronounce mouthpart (audio)
: a bodily structure that is near the mouth (as of an insect) especially when used to gather or eat food

Medical Definition

mouthpart

noun
mouth·​part ˈmau̇th-ˌpärt How to pronounce mouthpart (audio)
: a structure or appendage near the mouth especially of an insect
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