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

Examples of flea beetle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Best of all, the scent of mint repels an assortment of watermelon pests, including flea beetles and aphids, and mint and watermelon pair beautifully together in recipes, like watermelon, feta, and mint salad. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 May 2025

Radishes are known to provide several services in the garden, from trapping flea beetles to breaking up heavy and compacted soils. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 15 Apr. 2025

And if the plants need extra help, row covers or insect netting can protect them from early pests like cabbage worms or flea beetles. —Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 21 Feb. 2025

Aphids and flea beetles are the two primary insect pests of turnips. —Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for flea beetle

• fetal
• foetal
• acetyl
• bimetal
• decretal
• varietal
• centripetal