insect
/ˈɪn.sɛkt/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: insects
Sense 1
Meaning · English
An arthropod (in the Insecta class) characterized by six legs, up to four wings, and a chitinous exoskeleton.
Noun
Examples
Our shed has several insect infestations, including ants, yellowjackets, and wasps.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
A contemptible or powerless person.
Noun
Examples
The manager’s assistant was the worst sort of insect.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “insect” mean?
An arthropod (in the Insecta class) characterized by six legs, up to four wings, and a chitinous exoskeleton.
Is “insect” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.