: an ant (especially genus Camponotus) that gnaws galleries especially in dead or decaying wood
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Most species are a nuisance, but carpenter ants cause structural damage.—Sharon Wu, USA Today, 16 June 2026 Identifying Carpenter Ants Black carpenter ants are the most common type.—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 15 June 2026 While the essential oils and extracts distilled from citrus peels are effective at repelling insects ranging from carpenter ants to cockroaches, these compounds only work when applied in high concentrations, much higher than what is present in the peel itself.—Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 June 2026 Nests tucked into corners or under joists can also cause damage by trapping moisture and attracting secondary pests such as carpenter ants and termites.—Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for carpenter ant