1. An order of insects that includes dragonflies and damselflies, characterized by long slender bodies, two pairs of wings, and large compound eyes.
Usage: scientific/taxonomic term; usually capitalized; plural: Odonata (same form)

Examples

• Odonata are among the most ancient flying insects, with fossils dating back over 300 million years.
• The order Odonata includes more than 6,000 species found on every continent except Antarctica.
• Dragonflies and damselflies belong to the order Odonata and are skilled aerial hunters.
• Students studying entomology learn that Odonata have exceptional vision and can see in nearly all directions.
• Many species of Odonata depend on freshwater habitats for their larval development.