haltere

/ ˈhæltɪə, ˈhæltə /

noun

1. Also called: balancer. one of a pair of short projections in dipterous insects that are modified hind wings, used for maintaining equilibrium during flight

Word History and Origins

Origin of haltere¹

C18: from Greek haltēres (plural) hand-held weights used as balancers or to give impetus in leaping, from hallesthai to leap

Example Sentences

Neurons near the wings, part of what is called the haltere circuit, do the computations and send signals to the wings to correct the problem.

From New York Times

Calypter: Diptera; the alula or squama when it covers the haltere.

From Project Gutenberg

Exactly what math the neurons in the haltere system use is something for neuroscientists to investigate further.

From New York Times

Pre-halter: a membranous scale in front of the true haltere of a fly.

From Project Gutenberg