Intercalary vein
- Pronunciation
- /in-ter-kal-AIR-ee veen/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Intercalary vein
- Plural
- Intercalary veins
Definition
An extra vein found between two existing veins on an insect wing.
Etymology
From Latin 'inter-', meaning 'between', and 'calare', meaning 'to call' or from 'calx', meaning 'heel'.
Example
Intercalary veins are often found in the wings of dragonflies.
Related Terms
- Wing venation
- Veins
Usage Notes
Intercalary veins can vary in size and shape depending on the insect species.