family mantidae

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun family mantidae has 1 sense

Mantidae, family Mantidae, Manteidae, family Manteidae - mantises
--₁ is a kind of arthropod family
--₁ is a member of Manteodea, suborder Manteodea
--₁ has members: genus Mantis

Definitions from the Web

Term: Family Mantidae

Description:

The Family Mantidae refers to a taxonomic family of insects commonly known as mantises. Mantises are predatory insects that belong to the order Mantodea. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, triangular heads with large compound eyes, and powerful forelegs adapted for catching and grasping prey.

Senses and Usages:

Sense 1 (Noun) - Taxonomic Classification:

In the field of taxonomy, the term "Family Mantidae" is used to refer specifically to the family classification of mantises within the broader order Mantodea.

Example sentence: The praying mantis belongs to the family Mantidae.

Sense 2 (Noun) - Common Usage:

In common usage, "mantidae" is often used to talk about mantises in a general sense, without specifying the taxonomic classification.

Example sentence: I spotted a mantidae crawling on the branch.

Sense 3 (Adjective) - Popular Usage:

The adjective "mantidae" is sometimes used in popular culture to describe something related to or resembling a praying mantis. It can be used to describe physical attributes or behavior.

Example sentence: She had a mantidae-like posture, still and patient, waiting for the right moment.