doodlebug

noun

doo·​dle·​bug ˈdü-dᵊl-ˌbəg 

1

: the larva of an ant lion

also : any of several other insects

2

: a device (such as a divining rod) used in attempting to locate underground gas, water, oil, or ores

3

: buzz bomb

Word History

Etymology

probably from doodle fool + bug

First Known Use

circa 1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

doodlebug

noun

doo·​dle·​bug ˈdüd-ᵊl-ˌbəg 

: the larva of an ant lion