springtail

American  

[spring-teyl] / ˈsprɪŋˌteɪl /

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 pattern characteristic of the group.

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springtail British  

/ ˈsprɪŋˌteɪl /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of springtail

First recorded in 1790–1800; spring + tail ¹

Example Sentences

His photo “Life Under Dead Wood” featured fruiting slime mould alongside a tiny, energetic springtail.

From BBC • Oct. 8, 2024

Dr. Bhamla helped to bring in roboticists, who designed a robot based on the springtail that could right itself in the air and land on its feet 75 percent of the time.

From New York Times • Nov. 7, 2022

And it’s true that I’ve had some failures: The app once labeled a springtail a deer tick for me.

From Slate • Jul. 9, 2022

In addition, the springtail makes sure it lands feet—and water droplet—first by flexing its twirling body into a U shape midair, Ortega-Jimenez reported.

From Science Magazine • Jan. 13, 2022

What was less well known was whether hitchin’ a ride on a springtail was a significant contributor to what biologists like to politely term “reproductive success”.

From Scientific American • Jul. 28, 2012