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

Pest control Many common rose pests — including rose slugs, thrips, chilli thrips, and spider mites — pupate in the soil or overwinter in fallen plant debris. — Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Nov. 2026

Check the plant’s foliage for pests occasionally, paying particular attention to the undersides of leaves, where spider mites, scale and aphids like to hide. — ABC News, 3 Nov. 2026

Pests and Problems Triostar Stromanthe can occasionally be attacked by pests, including aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. — Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Oct. 2026

Even with all those preventative measures, still keep an eye on your plants for a few weeks, watching out for spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. — Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 19 Oct. 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