white ant

Etymology
From +, reflecting a superficial resemblance to the ant.

Noun

 * 1)  A termite.
 * 2) * 1990 December 13, Kenya National Assembly Official Record (Hansard), page D.3,
 * Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am happy to hear that the hon. Member appreciates the fact that white ants cause a lot [of] destruction in his area. There is very little we can do about white ants.
 * 1) * 1990 December 13, Kenya National Assembly Official Record (Hansard), page D.3,
 * Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am happy to hear that the hon. Member appreciates the fact that white ants cause a lot [of] destruction in his area. There is very little we can do about white ants.

Usage notes

 * Since a white ant is not a true ant (though its form and behaviour appear to suggest a relationship), the term is generally preferred, especially in scientific contexts.