Mantid
/ˈmæn.tɪd/noun
A mantid is a praying mantis, especially one of the order Mantodea.
Did you know?The root behind mantid comes from Greek mantis, meaning “seer” or “prophet,” the same ancient word behind English terms for divination and inspired prophecy.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
mántis
“a seer, prophet, or diviner”
Late Latin
Latin
mantis
“a praying mantis (named for its prayer-like posture)”
18th Century
English
mantis
“the insect known for its folded, prayer-like forelegs”
19th Century
English
mantid
“a mantis; later a member of the mantid group”
Modern English
English
mantid
“a praying mantis or related insect in the order Mantodea”