milkweed bug

noun

: a large black and reddish-orange bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus) that feeds chiefly on milkweed

Examples of milkweed bug 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.
One of the most common species around here that feeds on milkweeds is the small milkweed bug, Lygaeus kalmii. oregonlive, 9 Oct. 2021 In fact, a healthy aphid and milkweed bug population verifies there are no insecticides on the plant to threaten the monarchs’ well-being. Calvin Finch, San Antonio Express-News, 17 Sep. 2021 Along with entering the butterfly tent, visitors can view a live bug display that includes millipedes, beetles, milkweed bugs, cockroaches and scorpions. Ashley Sloboda, The Seattle Times, 21 Apr. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of milkweed bug was in 1905

Dictionary Entries Near milkweed bug

Cite this Entry

“Milkweed bug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/milkweed%20bug. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on milkweed bug

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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