Entomophagy
/ˌɛn.təˈmɒf.ə.dʒi/noun
The practice of eating insects as food.
Did you know?Entomophagy has been practiced for thousands of years, with over 2 billion people worldwide consuming insects as a staple food source, linking ancient cultures to modern sustainability efforts.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἐντομοφάγος (entomophágos)
“Literally 'insect eater', combining 'entomo-' (insect) and '-phagy' (eating).”
16th Century
Latin
insectum
“From the Latin 'insectum', meaning 'cut into pieces', reflecting the segmented bodies of insects.”
17th Century
English
entomology
“The study of insects, stemming from the same Greek root, highlighting the human fascination with the insect world.”
21st Century
English
entomophagy
“Adopted into modern English as a term for insect consumption, reflecting a cultural shift towards sustainable food practices.”
Explore more surprising origins