scarab

noun

scar·​ab ˈsker-əb 

ˈska-rəb

1

: any of a family (Scarabaeidae) of stout-bodied beetles (such as a dung beetle) with lamellate or fan-shaped antennae

2

: a stone or faience beetle used in ancient Egypt as a talisman, ornament, and a symbol of resurrection

Examples of scarab in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Nitzan discovered the scarab during a family outing at the Tel Azekah archaeological site near the city of Beit Shemesh. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Apr. 2025

The amulet Ziv found is shaped like a scarab or a beetle, the Israel Antiquities Authority said in the news release. —Saleen Martin, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2025

Archaeologists say Nitzan picked up an ancient Canaanite scarab that dates to the Middle Bronze Age. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Apr. 2025

An expert has determined that the item was a Canaanite scarab from the Middle Bronze Age, around 3,800 years ago. —Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle French scarabee, from Latin scarabaeus

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for scarab

• arab

Kids Definition

scarab

noun

scar·​ab ˈskar-əb 

1

: any of a family of large stout beetles (as a dung beetle)

2

: an ornament or a gem made to represent a scarab

especially : one used in ancient Egypt as a symbol of eternal life