1. Either of the rudimentary hind wings of dipterous insects; used for maintaining equilibrium during flight
   "The halteres of a housefly vibrate rapidly during flight to help the insect maintain balance";
   - halter, balancer

Derived forms: halteres

Type of: wing

Part of: dipteran, dipteron, dipterous insect, two-winged insects

Encyclopedia: Haltere