mantis

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a predatory insect of the order Mantodea, with a mobile triangular head and powerful grasping forelegs held as if in prayer

   The mantis remained motionless until a fly came within reach of its forelegs.

From New Latin mantis, from Greek mantis ("seer, prophet"). The insect was likened to a diviner because its folded grasping forelegs resemble hands held in prayer or contemplation.

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