1. An order of insects that includes grasshoppers, crickets, and katydids, characterized by hind legs adapted for jumping and wings that fold over the back.
Usage: scientific/taxonomic term; plural: orthoptera or orthopterans

Examples

• Orthoptera are known for their ability to produce sound by rubbing their wings together.
• The order Orthoptera contains thousands of species found on every continent except Antarctica.
• Grasshoppers and crickets belong to the group orthoptera.
• Many orthoptera are important food sources for birds and small mammals.
• Scientists study orthoptera to understand insect evolution and behavior.