cockchafer
noun
cock·cha·fer
ˈkäk-ˌchā-fər 
: 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
Dictionary Entries Near cockchafer
Cite this Entry
“Cockchafer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cockchafer. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.
Copy Citation
More from Merriam-Webster on cockchafer
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cockchafer
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share