1. small knobbed structures that replace the hind wings in flies and other two-winged insects, used for balance during flight
Usage: entomology; plural form

Examples

• The fly’s halteres vibrate rapidly to help it maintain stability in the air.
• Entomologists study how halteres function as gyroscopic organs in dipteran insects.
• When a fly’s halteres are damaged, it loses its ability to fly straight.
• The halteres beat at the same frequency as the forewings but in opposite phase.
• Researchers found that halteres provide crucial sensory feedback for flight control.
• The tiny halteres are easily overlooked but essential for insect flight mechanics.