rose slug

noun

: the green larva of either of two sawflies (Cladius difformis and Endelomyia aethiops) that feed on the parenchyma of and skeletonize the leaves of roses

Examples of rose slug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The main pests in the spring garden are aphids, hoplia beetles, caterpillars, rose slugs and thrips. Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rose slug was in 1840

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Cite this Entry

“Rose slug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rose%20slug. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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