nymph

nymph

noun \ˈnim(p)f\

Definition of NYMPH

1

: any of the minor divinities of nature in classical mythology represented as beautiful maidens dwelling in the mountains, forests, trees, and waters

2

: girl

3

: any of various immature insects; especially : a larva of an insect (as a grasshopper, true bug, or mayfly) with incomplete metamorphosis that differs from the imago especially in size and in its incompletely developed wings and genitalia

— nymph·al \ˈnim(p)-fəl\ adjective

Examples of NYMPH

1. <she bought the book of fairy tales for the beautiful engravings of nymphs and fairies featured between the stories>
2. <the neighborhood nymphs were gathered at the local pizza parlor, checking out the hot guys>

Origin of NYMPH

Middle English nimphe, from Middle French, from Latin nympha bride, nymph, from Greek nymphē — more at nuptial

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to NYMPH

Synonyms: dryad, hamadryad, naiad, oread, wood nymph

Related Words: mermaid, Nereid, Oceanid, sea-maid (or sea-maiden), siren, water nymph

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Other Insect Terms

drone, entomology, gadfly, pismire, proboscis, vespine