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

Illustration of japanese beetle

Examples of Japanese beetle 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.
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

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Japanese beetle was in 1900

Rhymes for Japanese beetle

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Browse Nearby Words

Japanese beech
Japanese beetle
Japanese bitterling
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Cite this Entry

“Japanese beetle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Japanese%20beetle. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on Japanese beetle

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Japanese beetle

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