stink bug

noun

variants or stinkbug
plural stink bugs or stinkbugs
: any of various hemipterous bugs (family Pentatomidae) that have a flattened, shield-shaped body with a triangular scutellum, emit a disagreeable odor when threatened, disturbed, or crushed, and include agricultural and household pests
The Maryland organic farmer is suffering from an infestation of stink bugs—crop-consuming pests emitting the odor of cilantro mixed with burned rubber and dirty socks.Heather Haddon
… Jay McPherson of nearby Southern Illinois University has recorded fifty kinds of stinkbugs from the Pine Hills; possibly the region now deserves the unenviable title of "Stinkbug Capital of the World."Robert H. Mohlenbrock

Examples of stink bug 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.
Cockroaches, stink bugs, lady beetles, and boxelder bugs seek shelter indoors each fall. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stink bug was in 1840

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Cite this Entry

“Stink bug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stink%20bug. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

stinkbug

noun
stink·​bug ˈstiŋk-ˌbəg How to pronounce stinkbug (audio)
: any of various true bugs that give off a bad smell
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