ladybug

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 + bug, the “lady” here referring to Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. Compare German Marienkäfer, Danish mariehøne, Latvian mārīte, Macedonian бубамара (bubamara) and Spanish mariquita.

In classic literature

Synonyms

ladybeetle, lady beetle, ladybird, ladybird beetle

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