flea beetle

noun

: any of a subfamily (Alticinae, especially genera Alticia and Epitrix) of small chrysomelid beetles with legs adapted for leaping that feed on foliage and include some that are agricultural pests

Examples of flea beetle in a Sentence

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And if the plants need extra help, row covers or insect netting can protect them from early pests like cabbage worms or flea beetles. Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 21 Feb. 2025 Aphids and flea beetles are the two primary insect pests of turnips. Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Oct. 2024 Mint Mint can deter ants, aphids, flea beetles, and white cabbage moths. Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Sep. 2024 In Chinese cabbage, green onions help deter flea beetles. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 17 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for flea beetle

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of flea beetle was in 1842

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Cite this Entry

“Flea beetle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flea%20beetle. Accessed 28 Feb. 2025.

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