honeydew

noun

hon·​ey·​dew ˈhə-nē-ˌdü How to pronounce honeydew (audio)
-ˌdyü
1
: a saccharine deposit secreted on the leaves of plants usually by aphids or scale insects or sometimes by a fungus
2

Examples of honeydew 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.
The undersides of the leaves may also feel sticky due to the honeydew. Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2025 The honeydew on Christmas Island is mostly produced by the yellow lac scale. Scott Travers, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024 Due to nymph feeding patterns, honeydew may be found on nearby plants and other surfaces through the spring, which could attract other insects, such as wasps and butterflies. Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 4 Oct. 2024 Yellow stippling on plant leaves and sticky honeydew residue can be signs of pests, but pests can also cause leaf wilting and stunted growth. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for honeydew 

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of honeydew was in 1526

Dictionary Entries Near honeydew

Cite this Entry

“Honeydew.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/honeydew. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

honeydew

noun
hon·​ey·​dew ˈhən-ē-ˌd(y)ü How to pronounce honeydew (audio)
1
: a sugary substance deposited on the leaves of plants usually by aphids or scale insects or sometimes by a fungus
2

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