mantis
noun/ˈmæntɪs/
Frequency rank: #11,619 most common English word
Meaning
A slender predatory insect known for its upright stance and grasping front legs, often appearing to be in a praying position.

Example sentence
The gardener was delighted to find mantis sitting motionless on the rose bush, waiting to ambush insects.
Synonyms & related words
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 11,601–11,700
- listera plow with a double moldboard that throws soil to both sides, creating ridges and furrows.
- loatheTo feel intense dislike or disgust toward something or someone.
- logisticrelating to the practical organization and coordination of a complex operation.
- macaroniA type of pasta shaped like short tubes, used in many dishes.
- manganesea hard, brittle, grayish-white metallic element used in steel production and other industrial processes.
- mayanrelating to the Maya people, their culture, language, or ancient civilization of Mesoamerica.
- midsummerThe middle of summer; the period around the summer solstice.
- momentousof great importance or significance, especially in having a major effect on the future.
- nightfallthe time in the evening when it becomes dark; dusk
- notaryA person officially authorized to witness signatures and certify legal documents.