Definition

A large group of insects that have two wings and include species like flies and mosquitoes. They have a special mouthpart for sucking and go through different stages of development, with their young often being called maggots.

Example

The diptera order includes many common insects such as houseflies and mosquitoes.

Conversation

Did you know that house flies belong to the order called diptera?

Really? I had no idea there was a specific name for them.

Yeah, it means they have only two functional wings!

That's fascinating! I guess it makes sense when you see how they fly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diptera is formed from "di-" (meaning two) and "pteron" (meaning wing). The word refers to insects that have two wings, distinguishing them from other insects with more wings.

Memory Tip

Think of insects with 'two' ('di-') 'wings' ('pteron') — that's why diptera refers to insects like flies that have only two wings.

Visually Confused Words