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Glite Dictionary
🌿 A leaf vein 🦋 A wing vein
nervure

nervure

9.9
A stiff vein in an insect wing that supports and shapes the wing
  • noun
  • /ˈnɜrvjʊr/
  • Specialized
translation icon : nervadura
  • Each nervure in a butterfly's wing helps to stiffen and support the delicate structure.

Examples

  • The transparent wings of the dragonfly are crisscrossed with prominent nervures.

  • Entomologists study the pattern of nervures to help classify different insect species.

  • Each nervure in a butterfly's wing plays a role in both support and flexibility.

  • The nervure of the butterfly's wing is beautifully intricate.

  • Each nervure plays a crucial role in wing support.

  • The transparent wings of the dragonfly feature intricate nervures that enhance their strength.

  • Entomologists often examine the nervures of insect wings to understand their flight capabilities.

Synonyms

vein
vsnervure
  • Specialized
2 7.8

Thin stiff lines in an insect wing that give it shape

is a general supporting rib that does not stress horny material
nervus
vsnervure
  • Specialized
9.9

A ridge in a leaf or insect wing that supports it

is limited to wing support rather than leaf vascular function

Surface Forms

nervure singular
nervures plural

Etymology

Nervure comes from the Latin nervus, meaning 'sinew' or 'nerve', the same root as the English word nerve. So a nervure is like the wing's 'sinew' — a vein or rib that gives the wing shape and strength, which is why people who study insects look at nervures to tell species apart.