Bug

Pronunciation: //bʌɡ//

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Bug

Plural: Bugs

Definition

A common term for any small invertebrate belonging to the order Hemiptera, characterized by having mouthparts adapted for piercing and sucking.

Etymology

From Middle English 'bugge', meaning 'scary thing', from possibly Welsh 'bwg' or Middle Irish 'boc' meaning 'ghost' or 'spirit'.

Example

Aphids are a common type of bug that can damage garden plants by sucking their sap.

Synonyms

True bug
Hemipteran

Related Terms

Insect
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
Hemiptera

Usage Notes

While the term 'bug' is often colloquially used to refer to any small insect or even arachnids, it technically refers to the order Hemiptera in entomology.