termite Meaning, Definition & Usage

Ter"mite noun

Etymology

F. See Termes.

Wordforms

plural Termites

Definitions

1. (Zoöl.) Any one of numerous species of pseudoneoropterous insects belonging to Termes and allied genera; -- called also white ant. See Illust. of White ant. ✍ They are very abundant in tropical countries, and are noted for their destructive habits, their large nests, their remarkable social instincts, and their division of labor among the polymorphic individuals of several kinds. Besides the males and females, each nest has ordinary workers, and large-headed individuals called soldiers.