cockchafer

noun

cock·​cha·​fer ˈkäk-ˌchā-fər How to pronounce cockchafer (audio)
: a large European beetle (Melolontha melolontha) destructive to vegetation as an adult and to roots as a larva
also : any of various related beetles

Word History

Etymology

cock entry 1 + chafer

First Known Use

1712, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cockchafer was in 1712

Dictionary Entries Near cockchafer

cock-brained

cockchafer

Cockcroft

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Cite this Entry

“Cockchafer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cockchafer. Accessed 8 Feb. 2023.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cockchafer

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cockchafer

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