chigger

noun

chig·​ger ˈchi-gər  ˈji- 

1

: chigoe sense 1

2

[alteration of jigger entry 3] : a six-legged usually red or orange mite larva (family Trombiculidae) that feeds on skin cells and causes intensely itchy reddish welts

also : the adult mite of this larva

Examples of chigger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It has also been known to stop the itch from wasp, chigger, and tick bites. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Aug. 2026

The chemical prevents mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies, chiggers, and midges from biting. — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 7 Aug. 2026

If you’ve ever been bitten, just hearing the word chigger is enough to cause a mighty itch. — Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 22 July 2026

Deadly bacteria has been found in NC chiggers before. — Charlotte Observer, 19 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for chigger

• bigger
• digger
• jigger
• rigger
• rigor
• trigger
• vigor
• gravedigger
• obligor
• outrigger

Kids Definition

chigger

noun

chig·​ger ˈchig-ər  ˈjig- 

: a six-legged mite larva that feeds on skin cells and causes itchy red welts

Medical Definition

chigger

noun

chig·​ger ˈchig-ər  ˈjig- 

1

: chigoe sense 1

2

: a six-legged, usually red or orange, mite larva of the family Trombiculidae that feeds on skin cells and causes intensely itchy, reddish welts

also : the adult mite of this larva

called also chigoe, harvest mite, jigger, red bug