mantid
1
9.6
- noun
- /ˈmæn.tɪd/
:
mantis
- 4) Mantids.
- praying mantids
Examples
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The three main bad guys—the sha, the mantid, and the mogu—are all completely different from each other, not only in terms of aesthetics but also in goals.
Blog text (14) -
So, with the aid of genetics labs across the country... we recombined termite and mantid DNA to create a biological counteragent... a new species to be our six-legged ally... in wiping out the roach population.
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The praying mantid patiently waited for its next meal, its forelimbs held up as if in prayer.
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In the garden, we spotted a mantid stalking a fly with precision and stealth.
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A large mantid perched on the branch, blending in with the leaves as it searched for prey.
Synonyms
28
6.1
An insect with big eyes and long front legs used to catch other insects
10
3.2
A large insect with front legs folded like praying hands that eats other insects
A large thin insect that eats other insects with front legs bent like folded hands
Compounds
A large thin insect that eats other insects with front legs bent like folded hands
Surface Forms
Etymology
Mantid comes from the Greek word mantis, which means 'prophet' or 'seer' because people long ago thought the insect's raised front legs looked like someone praying or thinking. That's why we often call it a 'praying mantis', and the name fits this insect that holds its front legs up like hands in prayer.