mouthpart

American  

[mouth-pahrt] / ˈmaʊθˌpɑrt /

noun

1. Usually mouthparts. the appendages surrounding or associated with the mouth of arthropods.

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mouthpart British  

/ ˈmaʊθˌpɑːt /

noun

1. any of the paired appendages in arthropods that surround the mouth and are specialized for feeding

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mouthpart Scientific  

/ mouth′pärt′ /

1. Any of the parts of the mouth of an insect or other arthropod, especially a part or organ used for a specific way of feeding.

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Etymology

Origin of mouthpart

First recorded in 1790–1800; mouth + part

Example Sentences

When a mosquito bites you, it pierces the skin using a mouthpart called a proboscis to suck up blood.

From Seattle Times • May 25, 2024

Known as an assassin bug, Sycanus uses its mouthpart to stab its insect prey, including the fire caterpillar, one of the most important pests of oil palm trees.

From Science Magazine • Jul. 11, 2019

They bite with their proboscis, a mouthpart that males have, too, minus the mechanics to penetrate skin.

From Washington Post • Jul. 6, 2015

They spin silk from a gland built into their multiple mouthpart bits.

From Scientific American • Aug. 9, 2012