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cockchafer

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noun cock·cha·fer \ˈkäk-ˌchā-fər\

Definition of cockchafer

: a large European beetle (Melolontha melolontha) destructive to vegetation as an adult and to roots as a larva; also : any of various related beetles

Origin and Etymology of cockchafer

¹cock + chafer

First Known Use: 1712

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cockchafer

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