fire ant

noun

: any of a genus (Solenopsis) of fiercely stinging omnivorous ants
especially : imported fire ant

Examples of fire ant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Coconut rhinoceros beetles were detected for the first time on islands statewide in subsequent months, while little fire ants caused serious concern on Oahu's windward coast. CBS News, 24 Oct. 2024 On a grassy berm earlier this year, Alex Kolker — an Louisiana State University professor — sidestepped some fire ants and stood looking at the Venture Global plant. Ricky Carioti, Washington Post, 5 July 2024 Chemical compounds in the fire ant's venom, piperidine alkaloids, cause the pustule to form over a few hours. Amanda Gardner, Health, 27 May 2024 Then, two minutes and 52 seconds into Espinoza’s arrest footage, Rogers makes the first audible reference to fire ants. Emily Palmer, Peoplemag, 29 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for fire ant 

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fire ant was in 1796

Dictionary Entries Near fire ant

Cite this Entry

“Fire ant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fire%20ant. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

fire ant

noun
: any of a genus of fiercely stinging ants
especially : imported fire ant

Medical Definition

fire ant

noun
: any ant of the genus Solenopsis
especially : imported fire ant

More from Merriam-Webster on fire ant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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