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The term for the type of metamorphosis where an egg hatches into a nymph that resembles an adult is known as gradual metamorphosis. This process involves three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The nymph looks similar to the adult form but typically lacks fully developed wings and reproductive organs. As the nymph matures, it undergoes a series of molts, gradually taking on characteristics that are more aligned with the adult insect.

This contrasts with the complete metamorphosis, which involves four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult, where the larva does not resemble the adult at all. Incomplete metamorphosis, while often used interchangeably with gradual metamorphosis, specifically refers to the more general process that adds the term "nymph" for certain insects but does not suggest the absence of resemblance between nymph and adult. Transformational metamorphosis is not a recognized term in entomology. Understanding these definitions is crucial for correctly identifying types of insect development.