homopteran

noun

ho·​mop·​ter·​an hō-ˈmäp-tə-rən How to pronounce homopteran (audio)
: any of an order or suborder (Homoptera) of insects (such as aphids and cicadas) that have sucking mouthparts
homopteran adjective
homopterous adjective

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek hom- + pteron wing — more at feather

First Known Use

circa 1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of homopteran was circa 1842

Dictionary Entries Near homopteran

Cite this Entry

“Homopteran.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homopteran. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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