whitefly

noun

white·​fly ˈ(h)wīt-ˌflī How to pronounce whitefly (audio)
: any of numerous small homopterous insects (family Aleyrodidae) that are injurious plant pests

Examples of whitefly 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.
Occasionally, some insects, such as scale, spider mites, aphids, or whiteflies may take up residence on the leaves. Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Dec. 2024 Related to aphids, scales, and mealybugs, whiteflies can cause significant harm in greenhouses. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 5 Dec. 2024 These annuals bloom in mid-spring through late summer and deter aphids, whiteflies and tomato hornworms. Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Apr. 2024 Also, when the whiteflies are under control the sooty mold gradually disappears. Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for whitefly 

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of whitefly was in 1896

Dictionary Entries Near whitefly

Cite this Entry

“Whitefly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/whitefly. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on whitefly

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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