lepidopteran

adjective

1. lepidopterous.

noun

2. a lepidopterous insect.

noun Also: lepidopteron plural -terans or -tera (-tərə)

1. any of numerous insects of the order Lepidoptera, typically having two pairs of wings covered with fragile scales, mouthparts specialized as a suctorial proboscis, and caterpillars as larvae: comprises the butterflies and moths

adjective Also: lepidopterous

2. of, relating to, or belonging to the order Lepidoptera

1. Any of various insects of the order Lepidoptera, characterized by four large, flat, membranous wings covered with small scales. The larvae of lepidopterans are caterpillars. Lepidopterans include butterflies, moths, and skippers.