Search results for 'beetle':

beetle¹ noun 1 any of numerous species of insect with thickened forewings that are not used for flight but modified to form rigid horny cases which cover and protect the delicate membranous hindwings. 2 (usually Beetle) colloq a particular type of small Volkswagen car with a rounded roof and bonnet, resembling a beetle in shape. 3 a game using dice, in which a drawing of a beetle is gradually assembled from its various parts. verb (beetled, beetling) intrans (usually beetle about, around or away) Brit to move quickly or as if in a hurry to get away; to scurry.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon bitela, from biten to bite; early 20c as verb.

beetle² noun (beetles) a long-handled tool with a heavy head, for crushing, beating, driving in wedges, etc.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon bietel, from beatan to beat.

beetle³ verb (beetled, beetling) intrans to project or jut out; to overhang. beetling adj • beetling cliffs.
ETYMOLOGY: 17c: apparently first used as a verb by Shakespeare; derived from beetle-browed.