scorpioid

[ skawr-pee-oid ]

adjective

1. resembling a scorpion.
2. belonging or pertaining to the Scorpionida, the order of arachnids comprising the scorpions.
3. curved at the end like the tail of a scorpion.

scorpioid

/ ˈskɔːpɪˌɔɪd /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or resembling scorpions or the order ( Scorpionida ) to which they belong
2. botany (esp of a cymose inflorescence) having the main stem coiled during development

Word History and Origins

Origin of scorpioid¹

1830–40; < Latin scorpi ( ō ) scorpion + -oid

Example Sentences

Leaves often lobed or divided, and the inflorescence frequently scorpioid.

From Project Gutenberg

Leaves mostly entire and plants often rough-hispid; inflorescence commonly scorpioid.

From Project Gutenberg

Fruit 2-lobed, separating into two 2-celled 2-seeded carpels, with sometimes a pair of empty false cells; style very short; flowers in bractless scorpioid spikes.

From Project Gutenberg

Nutlets erect and straight, unarmed, attached to the axis either at inner edge of base or ventrally from the base upward.—Ours are very hispid annuals or biennials, with small white flowers in scorpioid spikes.

From Project Gutenberg

Scorpioid, incurved like the tail of a scorpion; said of an inflorescence.

From Project Gutenberg