Definition

A type of insect that belongs to the order Hemiptera, which includes cicadas, aphids, planthoppers, leafhoppers, and shield bugs.

Example

The garden was filled with various hemipters, including colorful aphids and buzzing cicadas.

Conversation

Did you know that a hemipter can be a cicada or an aphid?

Really? I had no idea they belonged to the same group.

Yeah, it’s interesting how many different insects are hemipters.

I should look out for them next time I'm in the garden!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hemipter is formed from "hemi-" (meaning half) and "pteron" (from Greek, meaning wing). The word refers to insects that have wings that are partially hardened, thus describing their unique wing structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'half' ('hemi-') wings ('pteron') to remember that a hemipter is an insect with partially hardened wings.

Visually Confused Words