scale insect
noun
: any of numerous small prolific homopterous insects (superfamily Coccoidea) that have winged males, wingless scale-covered females attached to the host plant, and young that suck the juices of plants and some of which are serious pests
Examples of scale insect in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The same early detection applies to pests such as aphids, bark beetles, and scale insects.
—
Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Aug. 2025
Mealy bugs and scale insects are major foliage pests; control with a natural spray when noted.
77.
—Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2025
Tropical hibiscus can be affected by a variety of pests, including aphids, scale insects, and spider mites.
—Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2025
Stay alert for mites and scale insects to wash off as needed.
—Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for scale insect
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Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Aug. 2025
Mealy bugs and scale insects are major foliage pests; control with a natural spray when noted.
77.
—Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2025
Tropical hibiscus can be affected by a variety of pests, including aphids, scale insects, and spider mites.
—Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2025
Stay alert for mites and scale insects to wash off as needed.
—Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for scale insect
Cite this Entry
“Scale insect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scale%20insect. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.
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