Entom. [a. L. clypeus, properly clipeus round shield.] The broad shield-shaped part of the head of some insects which bears the labrum or upper lip.
1834. McMurtrie, Cuvier’s Anim. Kingd., 440. The Zygænæ are not found in the western continent … their inferior palpi extend beyond the clypeus, and are pointed at the extremity.
1871. Darwin, Desc. Man, I. x. 370. A most remarkable distinction between the sexes of many beetles is presented by the great horns which rise from the head, thorax, or clypeus of the males.
