pro·tely·trop·tera \prəˌtelē.ˈträpt(ə)rə\noun plural Usage: capitalized Etymology: New Latin, from prot- + elytron + -ptera : an order of extinct insects related to the Dermaptera, known only from the Permian, and characterized by slender elytra with a reduced venation and by broad hind wings resembling those of the Dermaptera • pro·tely·trop·ter·an\-t(ə)rən\noun or adjective • pro·tely·trop·ter·on\-təˌrän\noun-s • pro·tely·trop·ter·ous\-t(ə)rəs\adjective