redback spider

noun

: a theridiid spider (Latrodectus hasselti) that is closely related to the American black widow and probably identical with the katipo, has a venom which produces neurotoxic symptoms in man, and occurs in Australia, New Zealand, and the major islands of the East Indies

called also red-streaked spider

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!

Dictionary Entries Near redback spider

Cite this Entry

“Redback spider.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/redback%20spider. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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