a. (sb.). Zool. [f. L. vespertīliōn-, vespertīlio bat + -INE.] a. adj. Of or belonging to, comprising or consisting of, a large distinct group of insectivorous bats included in the sub-order Microchiroptera.
1875. G. E. Dobson, in Ann. Nat. Hist., XVI. 350. The families of Microchiroptera … form two natural alliances, which may be called the Vespertilionine and Emballonurine alliances respectively.
b. sb. A bat belonging to this group.
1891. Cent. Dict.
