Puffing
- Pronunciation
- /PUFF-ing/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Puff
- Plural
- Puffs
Definition
A rapid, short burst of air expelled from the body of an insect, often associated with defense mechanisms.
Etymology
From Middle English 'puffe', meaning 'a puff'.
Example
The grasshopper puffed out its abdomen to deter a predator.
Related Terms
- Defense
- Sound production
Usage Notes
Puffing can be accompanied by other defensive behaviors, such as wing buzzing or hissing.