scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən How to pronounce scorpion (audio)
1
a
: any of an order (Scorpionida) of nocturnal arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip
b
capitalized : scorpio
2
: a scourge probably studded with metal
3
: something that incites to action like the sting of an insect
the scorpions of absolute necessityArnold Bennett

Illustration of scorpion

Illustration of scorpion
  • scorpion 1a

Examples of scorpion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rodriguez didn't initially seek treatment, but a doctor informed him of the potential severity of a scorpion bite. Joey Nolfi, EW.com, 9 Apr. 2025 Each person recounted the same story: a little girl named Maria had been stung by a scorpion, fallen sick, and died. Lauren Markham, Harper's Magazine, 19 Feb. 2025 Symptoms of a scorpion sting include pain reaching levels of intense, numbness and tingling, swelling and warmth. Greg Wehner, Fox News, 3 Mar. 2025 Symptoms from scorpion stings — such as burning at the sting site, drooling. Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for scorpion

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French eskorpiun, from Latin scorpion-, scorpio, from Greek skorpios

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of scorpion was in the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Scorpion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scorpion. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

scorpion

noun
scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən How to pronounce scorpion (audio)
: any of an order of invertebrates that are arachnids and that have a long jointed body and a slender tail with a poisonous stinger at the end

Medical Definition

scorpion

noun
scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən How to pronounce scorpion (audio)
: any of an order (Scorpionida) of arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip

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