‖ Metabola, n. pl. Ent.
(mɛˈtæbələ)
Formerly Metabolia.
[mod.L. neut. pl., f. Gr. µεταβόλος changeable.]
A division of insects comprising those which undergo complete metamorphosis.
| 1817 Leach Zool. Misc. III. 58 Subclassis 11, Metabolia. 1855 Dallas Nat. Hist. I. 342 The suctorial Metabola. 1888 Rolleston & Jackson Anim. Life 508 In the Metabola, three well marked stages are distinguishable. |