pipistrelle

[ pip-uh-strel, pip-uh-strel ]

noun

1. any of numerous insectivorous bats of the genus Pipistrellus, especially P. pipistrellus of Europe and Asia.

pipistrelle

/ ˌpɪpɪˈstrɛl /

noun

1. any of numerous small brownish insectivorous bats of the genus Pipistrellus, occurring in most parts of the world: family Vespertilionidae

Word History and Origins

Origin of pipistrelle¹

1775–85; < French < Italian pipistrello, variant of vipistrello ≪ Latin vespertīliōn- (stem of vespertīliō ) bat. See vespertilionine

Word History and Origins

Origin of pipistrelle¹

C18: via French from Italian pipistrello, from Latin vespertīliō a bat, from vesper evening, because of its nocturnal habits

Example Sentences

This hoverfly migrates across Europe as far as the slopes of Switzerland, where they become prey for soprano pipistrelle bats.

From National Geographic

Some vanishings have inspired public outcry, such as the 2016 extinction declaration for the tiny Christmas Island pipistrelle bat species, last seen in 2009.

From Reuters

A pipistrelle bat set a new record for the longest-known bat migration.

From Scientific American

The Nathusius’ pipistrelle was found in a village in the Pskov region of northwestern Russia, according to the U.K.’s Bat Conservation Trust.

From Seattle Times

The expanding range of the Nathusius' pipistrelle's migration is linked to climate change, with future climate change predicted to further impact on the species.

From BBC