Termite is an insect that belongs to the order Isoptera. It is a small, white, wood-eating PEST that can cause significant damage to wooden structures. The term 'termite' is derived from the Latin word 'termes', meaning 'woodworm'. The term 'whiteant' is a common name for termites in some parts of the world, while 'PEST' is a general term used to describe any organism that causes harm to humans or their property.