1. (botany) the single cotyledon of a grass embryo
   "The scutellum absorbs nutrients from the endosperm during germination"
    
2. (zoology) a small, shield-like structure, especially the third of the four pieces forming the upper part of a thoracic segment of an insect
   "The scutellum is often visible between the wing covers of beetles"
    
3. One of the transverse scales on the tarsi and toes of birds
   "The scutellum helps protect birds' feet from wear and tear"

Derived forms: scutella

Encyclopedia: Scutellum