Forceps

Pronunciation
/FOR-seps/
Category
Entomology
Singular
Forceps
Plural
Forceps

Definition

A pair of appendages on the abdomen of certain insects, such as earwigs, used primarily for defense or prey manipulation.

Etymology

From Latin 'forceps', meaning 'tongs' or 'pliers'.

Example

The earwig used its forceps to fend off a predator.

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