5. (Mach.) 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.
Spider ant. (Zo["o]l.) Same as Solitary ant, under
Solitary.
Spider crab (Zo["o]l.), any one of numerous species of
maioid crabs having a more or less triangular body and ten
long legs. Some of the species grow to great size, as the
great Japanese spider crab (Macrocheira Kempferi),
measuring sometimes more than fifteen feet across the legs
when they are extended.
Spider fly (Zo["o]l.), any one of numerous species of
parasitic dipterous insects of the family
Hippoboscid[ae]. They are mostly destitute of wings, and
live among the feathers of birds and the hair of bats.
Called also bird tick, and bat tick.
Spider hunter (Zo["o]l.), any one of several species of
East Indian sunbirds of the genus Arachnothera.
Spider lines, filaments of a spider's web crossing the
field of vision in optical instruments; -- used for
determining the exact position of objects and making
delicate measurements. Fine wires, silk fibers, or lines
on glass similarly placed, are called spider lines.
Spider mite. (Zo["o]l.)
(a) Any one of several species of parasitic mites of the
genus Argas and allied genera. See Argas.
(b) Any one of numerous small mites injurious to plants.
Spider monkey (Zo["o]l.), any one of numerous species of
South American monkeys of the genus Ateles, having very
long legs and a long prehensile tail.
Spider orchis (Bot.), a European orchidaceous plant
(Ophrys aranifera), having flowers which resemble
spiders.
Spider shell (Zo["o]l.), any shell of the genus
Pteroceras. See Pteroceras.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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