Japanese beetle

noun

: a small metallic green and brown scarab beetle (Popillia japonica) that has been introduced into eastern North America from Japan and as a grub feeds on the roots of grasses and decaying vegetation and as an adult eats foliage and fruits

Illustration of Japanese beetle

Examples of Japanese beetle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Grubs, the larvae of beetles such as Japanese beetles and June bugs, pose a significant threat to many plants by feeding on their roots while residing in the soil. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 11 July 2026

Japanese beetles are social feeders that travel in groups to destroy gardens. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 7 July 2026

Here are some tips from the Plant Clinic for coping with Japanese beetles and grubs. — Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2026

Check Regularly for Pests and Disease Japanese beetles can decimate zinnias seemingly overnight. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Japanese beetle

• centripetal
• decretal
• varietal
• fetal
• foetal

Kids Definition

Japanese beetle

noun

: a small glossy green and brown beetle introduced into America from Japan that as a grub feeds on the roots of grasses and on decaying vegetation and as an adult eats leaves, flowers, and fruits