grasshopper

noun

grass·​hop·​per ˈgras-ˌhä-pər How to pronounce grasshopper (audio)
1
: any of numerous plant-eating orthopterans (Acrididae, Tettigoniidae, and some related families) having the hind legs adapted for leaping and sometimes engaging in migratory flights in which whole regions may be stripped of vegetation
2
: a cocktail made with crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and light cream

Examples of grasshopper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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While the interactive meal element provided a fun evening similar to hot pot or Korean barbecue, my primary reason for visiting the Butterscotch Den was to try its grasshopper cocktail ($10), which was featured on the Food & Wine website in September. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 30 Oct. 2025 Little grasshoppers that soared to amazing heights given their size. Literary Hub, 20 Oct. 2025 The droning hum of grasshoppers rubbing their legs across their wings and the splashing of a rushing stream often comprise the soundtrack that accompanies bird watchers. Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 22 Sep. 2025 Another control is spreading floating row covers over your plants, so grasshoppers can't get to them. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 17 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for grasshopper

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of grasshopper was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Grasshopper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grasshopper. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

grasshopper

noun
grass·​hop·​per ˈgras-ˌhäp-ər How to pronounce grasshopper (audio)
: any of numerous plant-eating insects that have long hind legs used for leaping

More from Merriam-Webster on grasshopper

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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