(n) large cylindrical or flattened mostly tropical insects with long strong legs that feed on plants; walking sticks and leaf insects, Syn. phasmid insect
n. [ See Phasm. Probably so called from its mimicking, or appearing like, inanimate objects. ] (Zool.) Any orthopterous insect of the family Phasmidæ, as a leaf insect or a stick insect. [ 1913 Webster ]