Meaning & Definition of word "Insect"
Insect
/ˈɪn.sɛkt/
noun:
- 1. A small arthropod animal that usually has six legs and one or two pairs of wings.
- Example: The garden was full of buzzing insects, such as bees and butterflies.
- 2. Any of numerous small invertebrate animals that belong to the class Insecta.
- Example: Some insects, like ants and beetles, play vital roles in the ecosystem.
- 3. A person who is considered to be insignificant or contemptible.
- Example: He felt like an insect under the intense scrutiny of his critics.
Etymology
●From Latin 'insectum', meaning 'cut into pieces', from 'insecare' (to cut in).
Common Phrases and Expressions
insect bite:
A wound caused by the bite of an insect.
social insect:
An insect that lives in a colony and cooperates with others, such as ants or bees.
insect anatomy:
The physical structure of an insect, including its various body parts.
Related Words
arthropod:
Invertebrate animal with jointed limbs, including insects, arachnids, and crustaceans.
entomology:
The scientific study of insects.
Slang Meanings of insect
Meaning: Bug
● Example Sentence: He's such a bug when it comes to cleanliness, always swatting at flies.
Meaning: Critter
● Example Sentence: Look at that critter crawling up the wall!