- Any one of numerous species of arachnids comprising the
order Araneina. Spiders have the mandibles converted into poison fangs,
or falcers. The abdomen is large and not segmented, with two or three
pairs of spinnerets near the end, by means of which they spin threads
of silk to form cocoons, or nests, to protect their eggs and young.
Many species spin also complex webs to entrap the insects upon which
they prey. The eyes are usually eight in number (rarely six), and are
situated on the back of the cephalothorax. See Illust. under Araneina. - Any one of various other arachnids resembling the true
spiders, especially certain mites, as the red spider (see under Red). - An iron pan with a long handle, used as a kitchen utensil
in frying food. Originally, it had long legs, and was used over coals
on the hearth. - A trevet to support pans or pots over a fire. - A skeleton, or frame, having radiating arms or members,
often connected by crosspieces; as, a casting forming the hub and
spokes to which the rim of a fly wheel or large gear is bolted; the
body of a piston head; a frame for strengthening a core or mold for a
casting, etc.
Definition
[ n.]