shot-hole borer

noun

: a small bark beetle (Scolytus rugulosus) that attacks orchard fruit trees and kills the bark of small branches and twigs
broadly : any of several other beetles of the family Scolytidae attacking trees or shrubs (such as the beetle Xyleborus fornicatus that attacks the tea plant)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near shot-hole borer

Cite this Entry

“Shot-hole borer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shot-hole%20borer. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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