spiders Definition

any of an order (Araneae synonym Araneida) of arachnids having a short, usually unsegmented abdomen linked to the cephalothorax by the pedicel, chelicerae modified into poison fangs, and two or more pairs of spinnerets at the posterior end of the abdomen for spinning threads of silk for various uses (as in making cocoons for their eggs or webs to catch prey)

any of various other arthropods and especially arachnids that resemble the true spiders —not used technically

a cast-iron frying pan originally made with short feet to stand among coals on the hearth

a venomous spider (Loxosceles reclusa) especially of the southern and central U.S. that has a violin-shaped mark on the cephalothorax and produces a dangerous cytotoxin which can cause necrotic lesions

any of a family (Thomisidae) of spiders that resemble crabs in shape and in being able to walk forward, backward, and sideways

any of a family (Salticidae) of small spiders that stalk and leap upon their prey

spider mite; especially : two-spotted spider mite

any of various small long-legged marine arthropods (class Pycnogonida) that superficially resemble spiders

any of various often large burrowing spiders (especially family Ctenizidae) that construct a tubular subterranean silk-lined nest topped with a hinged lid

any of various active wandering ground spiders (family Lycosidae)

a network of sticky threads made by a spider and used as a resting place and a trap for food