chafer

noun

cha·​fer ˈchā-fər How to pronounce chafer (audio)
: any of various scarab beetles (such as a cockchafer) that feed on leaves and flowers and whose larvae feed on plant roots

Examples of chafer 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.
Many other turf-destroying grubs, such as Japanese beetles and chafers, also are large white grubs. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2024 Both male and female black chafer beetles hide underground during the day and emerge every second night to search for food and a mate. Andrew Chapman, Scientific American, 16 Apr. 2024 Future work will untangle what drives this cycle in black chafer beetles and how the genes regulate their timing. Andrew Chapman, Scientific American, 16 Apr. 2024 May or June beetles: These beetles which are also called chafer beetles, are attracted to lights, according to the insect calendar. Abigail Celaya, The Arizona Republic, 4 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English cheaffer, from Old English ceafor; probably akin to Old English ceafl jowl — more at jowl entry 2

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chafer was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near chafer

Cite this Entry

“Chafer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chafer. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

chafer

noun
cha·​fer ˈchā-fər How to pronounce chafer (audio)
: any of various large beetles

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