Insects Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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insects
[ˈɪnˌsɛkts ]
Definition
small creatures
Insects are small animals with six legs and a hard outer skeleton. They often have wings and can be found all around the world. There are millions of different species of insects, including beetles, butterflies, ants, and bees.
Synonyms
bugs, creepy crawlies, critters.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| insects |
This term is used in scientific or formal discussions to refer to the class of small arthropods that have three body segments and six legs. It's appropriate in educational, biological, or environmental contexts.
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| bugs |
This is a more casual term often used in everyday conversation to refer to small insects or similar creatures. It can be used by both children and adults in informal settings.
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| creepy crawlies |
This term is used in informal settings to describe insects or small creatures that might cause fear or disgust. It often has a negative connotation and is used in a more emotional or dramatic way.
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| critters |
This term is an informal and somewhat affectionate word for small animals, including insects. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts, often in conversation or storytelling.
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Examples of usage
- There are many insects in the garden.
- Bees and butterflies are examples of insects.
- Insects play a crucial role in pollination.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'insects'
The term 'insect' comes from the Latin word 'insectum', meaning 'cut into sections'. Insects have been around for hundreds of millions of years and are crucial to the ecosystem as pollinators, decomposers, and food sources for other animals.
See also: insect, insecticide.