tiger beetle

noun

1. any of numerous active, usually brightly colored beetles, of the family Cicindelidae, that prey on other insects.

tiger beetle

noun

1. any active predatory beetle of the family Cicindelidae, chiefly of warm dry regions, having powerful mandibles and long legs

Word History and Origins

Origin of tiger beetle¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Word History and Origins

Origin of tiger beetle¹

C19: so called because it has patterned, sometimes striped, wing covers

Example Sentences

Many of the species of Cicindela, or tiger beetle, will illustrate this mode of protection.

From Project Gutenberg

Perhaps the carnivorous larva of the tiger-beetle, or cicindela, is as ferocious a being as any in this state.

From Project Gutenberg

At certain rotten trunks I was sure to get the curious little tiger beetle, Therates flavilabris.

From Project Gutenberg

It has very long legs, and prefers climbing among the foliage to living on the ground, like most varieties of the tiger-beetle.

From Project Gutenberg