*scutellum*

‖n.; pl. Scutella [ NL., neut. dim. of L. scutum a shield. ] 1. (Bot.) A rounded apothecium having an elevated rim formed of the proper thallus, the fructification of certain lichens. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Zool.) (a) The third of the four pieces forming the upper part of a thoracic segment of an insect. It follows the scutum, and is followed by the small postscutellum; a scutella. See Thorax. (b) One of the transverse scales on the tarsi and toes of birds; a scutella. [ 1913 Webster ]