‖n. pl. [ NL., fr. Gr. &unr_; with two wings, di- = di`s- twice + &unr_; feather, wing: cf. F. diptère. ] (Zool.) An extensive order of insects having only two functional wings and two balancers, as the house fly, mosquito, etc. They have a suctorial proboscis, often including two pairs of sharp organs (mandibles and maxillæ) with which they pierce the skin of animals. They undergo a complete metamorphosis, their larvæ (called maggots) being usually without feet. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. 1. (Zool.) Having two wings only; belonging to the order Diptera. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Anc. Arch.) Having a double row of columns on each on the flanks, as well as in front and rear; -- said of a temple. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. (Zool.) An insect of the order Diptera. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. [ Pseudo- + dipteral: cf. F. pseudodiptère. ] (Arch.) Falsely or imperfectly dipteral, as a temple with the inner range of columns surrounding the cella omitted, so that the space between the cella wall and the columns is very great, being equal to two intercolumns and one column. -- n. A pseudo-dipteral temple. [ 1913 Webster ]