aphid

noun

ˈā-fəd How to pronounce aphid (audio)
 also  ˈa-fəd
: any of numerous very small soft-bodied homopterous insects (superfamily Aphidoidea) that suck the juices of plants

Examples of aphid 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.
Honeydew is a sugary waste liquid produced by sap-feeding insects like aphids, certain scale insects, and planthoppers. — Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 13 Mar. 2025 Trap cropping with nasturtiums is especially handy for controlling aphid issues, but nasturtiums can also be planted as a living mulch to insulate the soil and keep lettuce beds from drying out too quickly. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Mar. 2025 Similar to our native Ladybugs, the Asian Lady Beetle was introduced on purpose to North America to control aphids in agricultural crops. — Stan Tekiela, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025 Manage scales and aphids using horticultural oil following label instructions. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 31 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for aphid

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aphid was in 1827

Phrases Containing aphid

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Cite this Entry

“Aphid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aphid. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

aphid

noun
ˈā-fəd How to pronounce aphid (audio)
 also  ˈaf-əd
: any of numerous small soft-bodied insects that suck the juices of plants

More from Merriam-Webster on aphid

Nglish: Translation of aphid for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about aphid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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