crabgrass

noun

crab·​grass ˈkrab-ˌgras How to pronounce crabgrass (audio)
: a grass (especially Digitaria sanguinalis) that has creeping or decumbent stems which root freely at the nodes and that is often a pest in turf or cultivated lands

Examples of crabgrass 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.
Luscious lawns, blooming gardens, flower beds, and even walkways are all prone to weeds like crabgrass, dandelions, and clover, which leaves us with the tedious task of pulling them out one by one. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 July 2025 One thing that works to your advantage is crabgrass plants germinate slowly, not all at once. Chris McKeown, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 Once again crabgrass is creeping into my St. Augustine lawn. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2025 These work to prevent crabgrass seed from germinating. Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for crabgrass

Word History

First Known Use

1743, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crabgrass was in 1743

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Cite this Entry

“Crabgrass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crabgrass. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

crabgrass

noun
crab·​grass ˈkrab-ˌgras How to pronounce crabgrass (audio)
: a weedy grass with creeping or sprawling stems that root freely at the nodes

More from Merriam-Webster on crabgrass

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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