spider mite

noun

: any of various small web-spinning mites (family Tetranychidae) that include destructive pests of plants

called also red spider

Examples of spider mite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Even if their leaves have been dying from the bottom up, this is often due to undiagnosed spider mites, which are treated by blasting the leaves with a strong jet of water every couple of days. — Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 2 Aug. 2026

Marigolds attract aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles, among other bugs. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 27 July 2026

Common zinnia pests include aphids, spider mites, earwigs, grasshoppers, and Japanese beetles. — The Spruce, 21 July 2026

Insect Issues Tropical hibiscus can be affected by a variety of pests, including aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. — Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for spider mite

• acolyte
• aconite
• allanite
• alunite
• amberlite
• ammonite
• amorite
• amphitrite
• analyte
• anchorite
• andesite
• anhydrite

Kids Definition

spider mite

noun

: any of various mites that spin webs and include some that attack plants

called also red spider