doodlebug

noun

doo·dle·bug ˈdü-dᵊl-ˌbəg

: the larva of an ant lion

also : any of several other insects

: a device (such as a divining rod) used in attempting to locate underground gas, water, oil, or ores

: buzz bomb

Etymology

probably from doodle fool + bug

First Known Use

circa 1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of doodlebug was circa 1866

See more words from the same year

Style

“Doodlebug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doodlebug. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Copy Citation

doodlebug

noun

doo·dle·bug ˈdüd-ᵊl-ˌbəg

: the larva of an ant lion

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