Pronunciation: [sɪkˈɑːləz] (IPA) 
Cicadas are insects known for their distinctive buzzing sound. The spelling of this word, however, can be confusing. The correct spelling of this word is "cicalas" (pronounced "sik-uh-luhs"). The "c" is pronounced like "s," the "i" is pronounced like "ih," and the "a" is pronounced like "uh." The final "s" is silent. Despite the spelling difficulties, these noisy insects remain a fascinating and beloved part of nature.
Cicadas are large insects belonging to the family Cicadidae, known for their distinct and loud song. They are commonly referred to as cicalas, and are found in various parts of the world, including North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa.
Cicadas are known for their striking appearance, with their membranous wings and robust bodies. They typically have large eyes and transparent wings, often displaying intricate patterns. These insects are primarily herbivorous, with a diet consisting mainly of plant sap that they extract using their sharp mouthparts.
One of the most prominent features of cicadas is their characteristic call, which is produced by the males to attract females. These calls are often incredibly loud and can reach volumes of up to 120 decibels, making them one of the loudest insects in the animal kingdom. The high-pitched sound is created by vibrating membranes known as tymbals present in their abdomen.
Cicadas have a unique life cycle, spending the majority of their lives as nymphs underground. Some species remain in this nymph stage for several years, while others have shorter periods. When the time comes, nymphs emerge from the ground, and adults complete their final molt, revealing their mature form. The adults will then mate and lay eggs, starting the cycle anew.
Cicadas hold cultural significance in various societies, often appearing in folklore, traditional songs, and poems. They have fascinated humans for centuries with their captivating songs and distinct life cycle.
The word "cicalas" is derived from the Latin word "cicada", ultimately originating from the Greek word "kikadas". This word has its roots in the Greek onomatopoeic term "kikarēs", imitating the sound made by cicadas. The term passed into Latin as "cicada", and subsequently evolved into "cicalas" in English.
