Hemelytra
- Pronunciation
- /hee-MEL-i-truh/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Hemelytron
- Plural
- Hemelytra
Definition
The forewings of certain insects, particularly those belonging to the order Hemiptera, that are partially hardened and often have a distinct covering or sheath.
Etymology
From Greek 'hemi', meaning 'half', and 'elytron', meaning 'sheath'.
Example
The hemelytra of a stink bug are partially hardened and protect its soft hindwings.