Ladybug: meaning, definitions and examples

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ladybug

 

[ ˈleɪdiˌbɜːɡ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

insect, beetle

A ladybug is a small, round beetle known for its distinctive red or orange body with black spots. They belong to the family Coccinellidae and are often considered beneficial insects because they feed on aphids and other pests. Ladybugs are commonly found in gardens and fields, where they help control pest populations. Their bright coloration serves as a warning to predators about their potential toxicity.

Synonyms

Coccinellidae, ladybird

Examples of usage

  • The ladybug crawled across the leaf.
  • She found a ladybug in her garden.
  • Ladybugs are great for organic gardening.

Translations

Translations of the word "ladybug" in other languages:

🇵🇹 joaninha

🇮🇳 गुड़िया भृंग

🇩🇪 Marienkäfer

🇮🇩 kumbang kecil

🇺🇦 сонечко

🇵🇱 biedronka

🇯🇵 テントウムシ (tentoumushi)

🇫🇷 coccinelle

🇪🇸 mariquita

🇹🇷 uğur böceği

🇰🇷 무당벌레 (mudangbeolle)

🇸🇦 خنفساء اليرقانة

🇨🇿 slunéčko sedmitečné

🇸🇰 slniečko

🇨🇳 瓢虫 (piáochóng)

🇸🇮 pavlač

🇮🇸 kollivönd

🇰🇿 құртшақ

🇬🇪 მაღალი

🇦🇿 keçiboynuzu

🇲🇽 vaquita de San Antonio

Etymology

The term 'ladybug' originated from the Middle Ages in Europe, when people believed these beetles were a divine answer to their farming problems. The name is thought to be derived from 'Our Lady's beetle,' referencing the Virgin Mary, as the red color and the spotted pattern were reminiscent of a lady's cloak. This connection to the Virgin Mary reflects people’s reverence and the idea that ladybugs were sent from above to protect crops. Over time, the nomenclature evolved into 'ladybug' in American English, while 'ladybird' is commonly used in British English. The fascination with ladybugs has led to their status as a symbol of good luck in various cultures, reinforcing their positive connotation. Their distinctive appearance and beneficial characteristics contribute to their popularity across the globe.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,016, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.