Japanese beetle

noun

: a small metallic green and brown scarab beetle (Popillia japonica) that has been introduced into eastern North America from Japan and as a grub feeds on the roots of grasses and decaying vegetation and as an adult eats foliage and fruits

Illustration of Japanese beetle

Examples of Japanese beetle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Among the pests that can harm peach trees are the peach tree borer, oriental fruit moth, stink bugs, and Japanese beetles, all of which feed on the tree. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 10 Mar. 2026

The aromatic foliage of sages (including herb species) deters aphids and Japanese beetles, while the blossoms support a host of beneficial insects. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 7 Mar. 2026

Daylilies are sometimes plagued by pests like thrips, slugs, aphids, Japanese beetles, and spider mites. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Japanese beetle

• acetyl
• bimetal
• decretal
• varietal
• centripetal
• fetal
• foetal

Kids Definition

Japanese beetle

noun

: a small glossy green and brown beetle introduced into America from Japan that as a grub feeds on the roots of grasses and on decaying vegetation and as an adult eats leaves, flowers, and fruits