springtail

[ spring-teyl ]

/ ˈsprɪŋˌteɪl /

noun

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 pattern characteristic of the group.

Nearby words

springlet, springlock, springs, springsteen, springsteen, bruce, springtail, springtime, springville, springwood, springy, sprinkle

Origin of springtail

First recorded in 1790–1800; spring + tail¹

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for springtail

springtail

/ (ˈsprɪŋˌteɪl) /

noun

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

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012