teneral

/ˈtɛnrəl/

Definitions

1. adjective

Describing a recently emerged insect that has not yet hardened its exoskeleton, typically in a pale yellow or green color.

“The entomologist carefully observed the teneral stage of the butterfly’s life cycle.”

2. noun

A teneral insect.

“The teneral butterfly perched on the delicate flower.”

Synonyms

  • emerger
  • instar

Antonyms

  • emerged
  • mature