doodlebug

noun

doo·​dle·​bug ˈdü-dᵊl-ˌbəg How to pronounce doodlebug (audio)
1
: the larva of an ant lion
also : any of several other insects
2
: a device (such as a divining rod) used in attempting to locate underground gas, water, oil, or ores
3
: buzz bomb

Word History

Etymology

probably from doodle fool + bug

First Known Use

circa 1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of doodlebug was circa 1866

Dictionary Entries Near doodlebug

doodle

doodlebug

doodlesack

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Doodlebug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doodlebug. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

doodlebug

noun
doo·​dle·​bug ˈdüd-ᵊl-ˌbəg How to pronounce doodlebug (audio)
: the larva of an ant lion

More from Merriam-Webster on doodlebug

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about doodlebug

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