noun
mantis
MAN-tihs
Mantis (noun) means a large insect that captures prey with its powerful front legs, often held folded as if in prayer. Example: “A praying mantis waited motionless on the leaf, ready to strike.”
noun
1
A large insect that captures prey with its powerful front legs, often held folded as if in prayer.
"A praying mantis waited motionless on the leaf, ready to strike."
How to use mantis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA predatory insect known for its folded front legs and stealthy hunting style.
Common pairings
praying mantis
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Word forms
- Plural
- mantises, mantes
Fill the gap
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A praying _____ waited motionless on the leaf, ready to strike.
Etymology
From Greek mántis, meaning "prophet" or "soothsayer," from the insect's prayer-like stance.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for mantis
See all rhymes for mantis →Frequently asked questions
What does “mantis” mean?
The word “mantis” means a large insect that captures prey with its powerful front legs, often held folded as if in prayer. In plain terms, a predatory insect known for its folded front legs and stealthy hunting style.
How do you pronounce “mantis”?
“Mantis” is pronounced MAN-tihs (/ˈmæntɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “mantis” in a sentence?
Here is “mantis” used in a sentence: “A praying mantis waited motionless on the leaf, ready to strike.”
What part of speech is “mantis”?
“Mantis” is a noun.
Where does the word “mantis” come from?
The word “mantis” comes from Greek. From Greek mántis, meaning "prophet" or "soothsayer," from the insect's prayer-like stance.
