Insecta

Pronunciation
/in-SEK-tuh/
Category
Taxonomy
Singular
Insect
Plural
Insects

Definition

A class of arthropods characterized by three body segments (head, thorax, abdomen), six legs, and typically two pairs of wings.

Etymology

From Latin 'insectus', meaning 'cut into' or 'segmented'.

Example

Insecta includes a wide variety of insects, such as butterflies, beetles, and ants.

Related Terms