# acanthopterous

CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/acanthopterous
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

having wings that look like they are covered in small, sharp spines or points. This is a word used to describe the wings of certain insects.

For teachers: possessing wings that are covered with small, sharp spines or points. Typically used in entomology to describe the wing structure of specific insect families.

## Examples

- The acanthopterous wings of the beetle are very distinctive.
- The entomologist noted that the specimen's acanthopterous wings were a key feature for identifying the species.
- While many insects have smooth or veined wings, the acanthopterous structure provides a unique defensive mechanism against predators by making the wings difficult to grasp.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.