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