aphid

noun

ˈā-fəd 

also ˈa-fəd

: any of numerous very small soft-bodied homopterous insects (superfamily Aphidoidea) that suck the juices of plants

Examples of aphid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Part of the Cucurbita family, cucumbers, yellow squash, and zucchini can all fall prey to squash bugs alongside other common garden pests like aphids and cucumber beetles. —Haniya Rae, Martha Stewart, 12 Mar. 2026

Nasturtiums draw beneficial insects that devour aphids, whiteflies, and other harmful pests. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 2026

Among its many benefits, diatomaceous earth (DE) can control pests as varied as earwigs, caterpillars, ants and aphids, and keep slugs and snails out of garden beds, too. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 10 Mar. 2026

Stop the ants using Terro or Advion bait stations, then hose off or scrape away the aphids, mealy bugs and scale. —Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing aphid

• aphid lion
• corn leaf aphid
• green peach aphid
• pea aphid
• spotted alfalfa aphid
• woolly aphid

Kids Definition

aphid

noun

ˈā-fəd 

also ˈaf-əd

: any of numerous small soft-bodied insects that suck the juices of plants