In terms of insect development, what does the term "nymph" refer to?

The term "nymph" refers to a developmental stage in insects that undergo gradual metamorphosis. This type of metamorphosis includes three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. During the nymph stage, the young insect resembles a small version of the adult and continues to grow and develop through multiple molts. This is distinct from complete metamorphosis where insects go through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult, which includes a significant transformation process. Therefore, identifying "nymph" as a stage in gradual metamorphosis accurately captures its role in the life cycle of certain insects, such as grasshoppers and cockroaches.