I. ˈinˌsekt noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin insectum, from neuter of insectus, past participle of insecare to cut into, from in- in- (II) + secare to cut; translation of Greek entomon — more at saw , entomology
1.
a. : any of numerous small invertebrate animals that are more or less obviously segmented and that include members of the class Insecta and others (as spiders, mites, ticks, centipedes, sowbugs) having superficial resemblance to members of Insecta — not used technically
b.
[New Latin Insecta ]
: a member of the class Insecta (as an ant, bee, fly)
2. now chiefly substandard : any of various small animals (as an earthworm, coral polyp, turtle)
3. : a small, trivial, or contemptible person
[s]insect.jpg[/s] [
insect 1b: 1 labial palpus, 2 maxillary palpus, 3 simple eye, 4 antenna, 5 compound eye, 6 prothorax, 7 tympanum, 8 wing, 9 ovipositor, 10 spiracles, 11 abdomen, 12 metathorax, 13 mesothorax
]
II. adjective
1. : of, relating to, or being insects
insect bites
insect pests
2. : used on, for, or against insects
insect pins
insect powder
an insect cabinet
3. : using or depending on insects
insect feeders
insect fertilization