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sow bug
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sow bug

noun \ˈsau̇-\

Definition of SOW BUG

: wood louse; especially : a wood louse capable of curling itself into a ball
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First Known Use of SOW BUG

1750

sow bug

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Sow bug (Oniscus asellus).—Hugh Spencer

Any of certain terrestrial crustaceans of the order Isopoda, especially members of the genus Oniscus. Native to Europe, they have been introduced into North America. Sow bugs grow to 0.7 in. (18 mm) long. The oval, gray body is rather arched and is covered with broad, armourlike plates. Two elbowed antennae extend about half the length of the body, and there are seven pairs of limbs. The sow bug lives in moist places, especially under stones, in moist leaf litter, and in cellars. See also pill bug.

Variants of SOW BUG

sow bug or wood louse

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