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
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These attract a variety of beneficial insects including parasitoid wasps, lacewings, and syrphid flies, all of which feed on aphids, whiteflies, insects eggs, and other garden pests. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2025 This mold forms on the sticky honeydew excreted by whiteflies during feeding. Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2025 Nasturtiums have long been grown as a companion plant in the vegetable garden where they are used to manage aphids, cabbage loopers, whiteflies, and other pests. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 21 Mar. 2025 Garden pests including aphids, whiteflies and mites are active; use a natural control. 69. Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Mar. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Whitefly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/whitefly. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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