1. An order of insects that includes butterflies and moths, characterized by four wings covered with overlapping scales and a coiled proboscis for feeding.
Usage: Used as a collective noun; typically treated as singular in scientific contexts; From Greek lepis (scale) and pteron (wing)

Examples

• Lepidoptera is one of the largest orders of insects, with over 150,000 known species.
• The museum's collection of lepidoptera includes specimens from around the world.
• Scientists study lepidoptera to understand insect evolution and biodiversity.
• Butterflies and moths belong to the order Lepidoptera.
• The delicate wings of lepidoptera are covered with tiny, colorful scales.