Aculeus
- Pronunciation
- /ah-kew-LEE-us/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Aculeus
- Plural
- Aculei
Definition
A sharp, piercing structure found on some arthropods, such as wasps and bees.
Etymology
Latin *aculeus*, meaning 'thorn' or 'prick'.
Example
The aculeus of a wasp sting is used to inject venom.