ladybird

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun small round bright-colored and spotted beetle that usually feeds on aphids and other insect pests

Etymology

From lady + bird, the “lady” here referring to the Virgin Mary, Jesus’ mother. Compare German Marienkäfer (literally “Mary beetle/bug”), Danish mariehøne, Latvian mārīte, Macedonian бубамара (bubamara) and Spanish mariquita. Also compare damselfly.

In classic literature

Synonyms

ladybug, ladybeetle, lady beetle, ladybird beetle

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