Definition

Relating to a specific group of insects known as true bugs, which have forewings and hind wings that are different from each other.

Example

The heteropterous insects can often be found in gardens, where they play a role in pest control.

Conversation

Did you know that some insects are heteropterous?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means their wings are different from each other, like true bugs.

That's interesting! I didn't realize there were so many types of insects.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heteropterous → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "pteron" (from Greek, meaning wing). The word describes insects that have different types of wings, particularly those with one pair of wings that is thicker or more hardened than the other.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') wings ('pteron') to remember that 'heteropterous' refers to insects with different types of wings.

Visually Confused Words