Nepa
/ˈnɛpə/Entomology
noun
A genus of predatory aquatic bugs (family Nepidae), having a flattened, oval body, raptorial front legs, and a thin, tail-like breathing tube; (also nepa) a bug of this genus, a water scorpion.
- Valid publication of the genus name: Linnaeus Systema Naturae (ed. 10, 1758) I. 440..
Origin
Mid 18th century; earliest use found in John Hill (bap. 1714, d. 1775), physician and actor. From scientific Latin Nepa (Linnaeus Systema Naturae f. 8) from classical Latin nepa a kind of scorpion, given as an African word by ancient etymologists.