In`sec*tiv"o*ra (?), n. pl. [NL., from L. insectum an insect + vorare to devour.] Zool.
1.
An order of mammals which feed principally upon insects.
⇒ They are mostly of small size, and their molar teeth have sharp cusps. Most of the species burrow in the earth, and many of those of cold climates hibernate in winter. The order includes the moles, shrews, hedgehogs, tanrecs, and allied animals, also the colugo.
2.
A division of the Cheiroptera, including the common or insect-eating bats.
© Webster 1913.