Definition of "thrips"

The turnrows and margins of the fields should be cultivated often enough to prevent the growth of weeds, many forms of which harbor the onion thrips.

1919, Frank Hurlbut Chittenden, Control of the Onion Thrips, page 9

The thousands of thrips species include among their number the smallest of all winged insects.

2002, Thrips, article in International Wildlife Encyclopedia Volume 19, Picture caption, page 2676

Bleaching and stippling on viburnum foliage infested with greenhouse thrips. Because this sluggish thrips feeds openly on the underside of leaves, it is controlled by thorough coverage with insecticidal soap or oil.

2004, Steve H. Dreistadt, Pests of Landscape Trees and Shrubs: An Integrated Pest Management Guide, Picture caption, page 157