Definition

Referring to organisms, especially insects, that have very short or underdeveloped wings.

Example

The brachypterous species of beetles are unable to fly due to their tiny wings.

Conversation

Did you see that insect over there with the tiny wings?

Yeah, I think it's brachypterous; I've read about those types before.

It's interesting how some insects evolve to have such short wings.

Right? It makes you wonder how they adapt to their environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Brachypterous → It is formed from "brachy-" (from Greek "brachys", meaning short) and "pteron" (from Greek, meaning wing). The word describes an organism that has short wings.

Memory Tip

Think of 'short' ('brachy-') wings ('pteron') to remember that 'brachypterous' refers to creatures with short wings.

Visually Confused Words