The name of this order, which means "fringe wing", is derived from the narrow, hair-fringed wings of these minute insects. Thrips are also characterized by asymmetrical piercing mouthparts and bladder-like tarsi. Most species imbibe the contents of plant cells, while a few are predatory on soft-bodied insects and other thrips.
Note that the common name "thrips" is used in both the singular and plural senses; "thrip" is a very common misspelling.