Winged insects
- Pronunciation
- /wingd IN-sekts/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Winged insect
- Plural
- Winged insects
Definition
Insects that possess wings at some stage of their life cycle, allowing them to fly.
Etymology
From Old English 'wenge' (wing) and Latin 'insectum' (segmented, cut into), referring to the distinct body segments of insects.
Example
Dragonflies, bees, and butterflies are all examples of winged insects.
Synonyms
- Pterygota
- Winged arthropods
Related Terms
- Pterygote
- Flight
- Insecta
- Metamorphosis
- Flight muscles
Usage Notes
Not all winged insects are capable of flight throughout their entire life cycle; some may possess wings only during their adult stage.