scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

1

a

: any of an order (Scorpionida) of nocturnal arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip

b

capitalized : scorpio

2

: a scourge probably studded with metal

3

: something that incites to action like the sting of an insect

the scorpions of absolute necessity

—Arnold Bennett

Illustration of scorpion

• scorpion 1a

Examples of scorpion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

So, the unlikely pair began to cross the river, the scorpion on the frog’s back. —Charlie Dektar, The New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2025

Marking the eighth zodiac sign on the wheel, Scorpio is a Water sign and symbolized by a scorpion. —Skyler Caruso, People.com, 20 Dec. 2024

Pinpointed as one of Whole Foods Market’s 2024 Top 10 Food Trend Predictions, the retailer’s Trend Council reveals that scorpion, guajillo, Hungarian goathorn, and other global peppers are about to start popping up in every aisle—including the drink section. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Dec. 2024

Officials did not have any further information on if the scorpion has been located. —Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 3 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French eskorpiun, from Latin scorpion-, scorpio, from Greek skorpios

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing scorpion

• scorpion fish
• scorpion fly
• sea scorpion
• water scorpion
• whip scorpion

Kids Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order of invertebrates that are arachnids and that have a long jointed body and a slender tail with a poisonous stinger at the end

Medical Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order (Scorpionida) of arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip