termites

Termes \Ter"mes\ (t[~e]r"m[=e]z), n.; pl. {Termites}
   (-m[i^]*t[=e]z). [L. termes, tarmes, -itis, a woodworm. Cf.
   {Termite}.] (Zool.)
   A genus of Pseudoneuroptera including the white ants, or
   termites. See {Termite}.
   [1913 Webster]
    

Termite \Ter"mite\, n.; pl. {Termites}. [F. See {Termes}.]
   (Zool.)
   Any one of numerous species of pseudoneoropterous insects
   belonging to {Termes} and allied genera; -- called also
   {white ant}. See Illust. of {White ant}.
   [1913 Webster]

   Note: They are very abundant in tropical countries, and are
         noted for their destructive habits, their large nests,
         their remarkable social instincts, and their division
         of labor among the polymorphic individuals of several
         kinds. Besides the males and females, each nest has
         ordinary workers, and large-headed individuals called
         soldiers.
         [1913 Webster]