1. A small parasitic wasp that lays eggs in or on the bodies of other insects, whose larvae feed on the host.
Usage: entomology; also called ichneumon wasp
2. A mongoose found in Africa and Asia, formerly believed to kill crocodile eggs and snakes.
Usage: archaic or historical usage

Examples

• The ichneumon wasp is a natural pest control agent in gardens and farms.
• Farmers appreciate ichneumons because they reduce populations of harmful insects.
• An ichneumon deposits its eggs inside a caterpillar, which serves as food for the developing larvae.
• The ancient Egyptians associated the ichneumon mongoose with protection and fertility.
• Ichneumons are among the most diverse groups of parasitic insects in the world.