hemipteran
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /hɛmˈɪptərən/
KK: /hɛmˈɪptərən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a large order of insects that includes bugs, aphids, and cicadas, characterized by having mouthparts adapted for piercing and sucking.
Example
The hemipteran insects are known for their unique feeding habits.
Conversation
Did you see that insect in the garden yesterday?
Yeah, I think it was a hemipteran of some sort.
It was so interesting to watch it move around!
I love how hemipteran insects can be so diverse.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hemipterous
Antonyms
noun
Definition
A type of insect that belongs to the order Hemiptera, known for having wings that are partly hardened and mouthparts designed for piercing and sucking.
Example
The garden was filled with hemipterans, including aphids and cicadas, which are known for their unique feeding habits.
Conversation
Did you know that a hemipteran is actually a type of true bug?
Really? I had no idea bugs could be classified like that.
Yeah, they have unique mouthparts for piercing and sucking.
Root Explanation
Hemipteran → It is formed from "hemi-" (from Greek "hēmi-", meaning half) and "pteron" (from Greek "pteron", meaning wing). The word refers to insects that have wings that are partially hardened, hence the term half-winged.
Memory Tip
Think of 'half' ('hemi-') and 'wing' ('pteron') to remember that a hemipteran is an insect with partially hardened wings.
Visually Confused Words
protohemipteran
homopteran
embioptera