Japanese beetle

noun

: a small metallic green and brown scarab beetle (Popillia japonica) that has been introduced into eastern North America from Japan and as a grub feeds on the roots of grasses and decaying vegetation and as an adult eats foliage and fruits

Illustration of Japanese beetle

Examples of Japanese beetle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The aromatic foliage of sages (including herb species) deters aphids and Japanese beetles, while the blossoms support a host of beneficial insects. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 11 Apr. 2025

Tuck garlic and chives throughout your growing area to attract beneficial insects and repel pests such as aphids, Japanese beetles, snails, and rabbits. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 24 Sep. 2024

Rabbits, deer, and Japanese beetles tend to avoid the same plants. 5. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Sep. 2024

Many other turf-destroying grubs, such as Japanese beetles and chafers, also are large white grubs. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2024

Or plant chives, which repel Japanese beetles and carrot rust flies. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 7 Aug. 2024

Mexican bean beetles, Japanese beetles, aphids, and leafhoppers are sometimes a problem. —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2024

Pest control Unfortunately, Japanese beetles find basil leaves to their liking. —Betty Cahill, The Denver Post, 11 June 2024

State and county officials are on the lookout for Japanese beetles, which are considered pests. —Hanh Truong, Sacramento Bee, 7 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Japanese beetle

• acetyl
• bimetal
• decretal
• varietal
• centripetal
• fetal
• foetal

Kids Definition

Japanese beetle

noun

: a small glossy green and brown beetle introduced into America from Japan that as a grub feeds on the roots of grasses and on decaying vegetation and as an adult eats leaves, flowers, and fruits