/ˌæptərɪɡˈɒtəs/; ap-tər-i-gō-təs

Definitions

1. adjective

belonging to or characteristic of insects without wings, especially those in the subclass Apterygota, such as springtails and bristletails.

“The fossil record shows that apterygotous insects were the first to evolve on land.”

2. noun

a member of the subclass Apterygota.

“Apterygotous insects are often found in moist environments.”