LEPIDOLITE
Le*pid"o*lite, n. Etym: [Gr. -lite: cf. F. lépidolithe.] (Min.)
Defn: A species of mica, of a lilac or rose-violet color, containing lithia. It usually occurs in masses consisting of small scales. See Mica.
LEPIDOMELANE
Lep`i*dom"e*lane, n. Etym: [Fr. (Min.)
Defn: An iron-potash mica, of a raven-black color, usually found in granitic rocks in small six-sided tables, or as an aggregation of minute opaque scales. See Mica.
LEPIDOPTER
Lep`i*dop"ter, n. Etym: [Cf. F. lépidoptère.] (Zoöl.)
Defn: One of the Lepidoptera.
LEPIDOPTERA
Lep`i*dop"te*ra, n. pl. Etym: [NL., fr. Gr. (Zoöl.)
Defn: An order of insects, which includes the butterflies and moths. They have broad wings, covered with minute overlapping scales, usually brightly colored.
Note: They have a tubular proboscis, or haustellum, formed by the two slender maxillæ. The labial palpi are usually large, and the proboscis, when not in use, can be coiled up spirally between them. The mandibles are rudimentary. The larvæ, called caterpillars, are often brightly colored, and they commonly feed on leaves. The adults feed chiefly on the honey of flowers.
LEPIDOPTERAL; LEPIDOPTEROUS
Lep`i*dop"ter*al, Lep`i*dop"ter*ous, a. (Zoöl.)