springtail

[ spring-teyl ]

noun

1. any of numerous minute, wingless primitive insects of the order Collembola, most possessing a special abdominal appendage for jumping that allows for the nearly perpetual springing springing spring pattern characteristic of the group.

springtail

/ ˈsprɪŋˌteɪl /

noun

1. any primitive wingless insect of the order Collembola, having a forked springing organ with which it projects itself forward

Word History and Origins

Origin of springtail¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; spring + tail ¹

Example Sentences

Some of nature’s extreme self-launchers, the springtails, turn out to be much more acrobatic than scientists thought.

From Science News

The spring serves the Collembola which possess it as an efficient leaping-organ (see Springtail).

From Project Gutenberg