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

For instance, think about insects’ antennae, scorpions’ pincers and spiders’ fangs. —Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024

The creatures — distant relatives of contemporary spiders, scorpions, and horseshoe crabs — were preserved in remarkably good shape, according to a report in Current Biology. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 29 Oct. 2024

Meanwhile, the giant desert centipede and desert hairy scorpion, though less deadly, still pose significant discomfort. —Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 25 Sep. 2024

Searching a rock wall around the edge of the graveyard, researchers found several scorpions. —Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 3 July 2024

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