alfalfa webworm

noun

: the small greenish or blackish larva of a pyralid moth (Loxostege commixtalis) that feeds on and webs together the leaves of various succulent plants and is especially destructive on sugar beet and alfalfa

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alfalfa webworm was in 1905

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near alfalfa webworm

Cite this Entry

“Alfalfa webworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alfalfa%20webworm. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!