ladybug

noun

la·​dy·​bug ˈlā-dē-ˌbəg 

: any of numerous small nearly hemispherical often brightly colored often spotted beetles (family Coccinellidae) of temperate and tropical regions that usually feed both as larvae and adults on other insects (such as aphids)

called also lady beetle, ladybird, ladybird beetle

Illustration of ladybug

Examples of ladybug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

On her fingertips were little ladybugs dotting her nails, courtesy of nail artist Elle Gerstein. —Diana Tsui, Footwear News, 24 May 2026

For a straightforward Americana nail look, incorporate red French tips and ladybugs into your design. —Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 21 May 2026

Its flowers attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies and ladybugs, which prey on aphids. —Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 19 May 2026

For example, plant pollinator-friendly flowers to attract beneficials such as ladybugs, which love to dine on aphids. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 18 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Our Lady, the Virgin Mary

First Known Use

1699, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ladybug

• antidrug
• mealybug
• multidrug
• chug
• doug
• drug
• dug
• hug
• jug
• lug
• mug
• plug

Kids Definition

ladybug

noun

la·​dy·​bug -ˌbəg 

: any of numerous small roundish-backed often brightly colored and spotted beetles that usually feed both when young and adult on other insects (as aphids)