1. One of a pair of hardened, protective forewings in beetles and some other insects, typically covering the membranous hind wings.
Usage: technical; entomology; usually used in plural form 'elytra'

Examples

• The beetle's elytra are iridescent green and reflect light beautifully.
• Entomologists examine the elytra to identify different beetle species.
• When the insect takes flight, the elytra lift to reveal the delicate wings beneath.
• The hardened elytra protect the insect's body from damage and desiccation.
• Each elytrum is marked with distinctive ridges and patterns unique to the species.