Mantis
/ˈmæn.tɪs/noun
A predatory insect with a triangular head and folded forelegs held in a grasping posture.
Did you know?The word comes from Greek mantis, meaning “seer” or “prophet,” the same sacred-root idea behind divination and inspired speech in ancient religion.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*men-
“to think; to have mind or intent”
Ancient Greek
Greek
mántis
“a seer, prophet, or diviner”
Late Latin
Latin
mantis
“a praying mantis; literally a “seer” insect”
16th Century
English
mantis
“the insect name adopted from Latin and Greek”
Modern English
English
mantis
“a predatory insect known for its prayer-like forelegs”