flea beetle

noun

: any of a subfamily (Alticinae, especially genera Alticia and Epitrix) of small chrysomelid beetles with legs adapted for leaping that feed on foliage and include some that are agricultural pests

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web While not widespread garden pests because many of our other vegetables don’t suit them, this particular flea beetle can still hamper the productivity of callaloo. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 16 Feb. 2023 Before using any pesticide, read the label and ensure that use of the compound is registered for alder flea beetle control. oregonlive, 3 Sep. 2022 One problem Burgundy producers face is that the European Union has banned an insecticide long used to combat the black flea beetle, a scourge. New York Times, 14 July 2022 Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. oregonlive, 1 May 2022 Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. oregonlive, 1 May 2022 Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. oregonlive, 1 May 2022 Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. oregonlive, 1 May 2022 Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. oregonlive, 1 May 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'flea beetle.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of flea beetle was in 1842

Dictionary Entries Near flea beetle

Cite this Entry

“Flea beetle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flea%20beetle. Accessed 24 Mar. 2023.

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