Definition

1. Noun:
   • A long-legged insect that moves on the surface of water: A water skater is a type of bug, also commonly known as a water strider or pond skater, characterized by its slender body and very long legs, which allow it to skim or glide across the surface of water without sinking.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We observed a water skater darting across the calm surface of the pond.
  • The water skater uses the water's surface tension to support its weight.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific context: In entomology, the term "water skater" is used informally to refer to insects in the family Gerridae, which are true bugs (Hemiptera) adapted to a semi-aquatic life.
  • The study focused on the locomotion mechanics of the water skater.

Variants and Related Words

• Water strider (n): Another common name for the same insect.
  • Water striders are often seen in slow-moving streams.
• Pond skater (n): A variant name, particularly used in British English.
  • Children enjoy watching pond skaters on the village pond.

Synonyms

• Gerrid: The scientific family name, often used to refer to these insects collectively.
• Jesus bug: A colloquial name, referencing the insect's ability to "walk on water."

Related Phrases

• To skate on water: A descriptive phrase inspired by the insect's movement, though not a standard phrasal verb.
  • The insect seemed to skate on water with effortless grace.

Noun

1. long-legged bug that skims about on the surface of water