Ladybug Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈlædɪbʌɡ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A small, oval-shaped beetle, typically reddish-yellow with black spots, that is often considered a symbol of good luck.

Examples

• The child was delighted by the ladybug that landed on her hand.
• Ladybugs are beneficial insects, as they prey on aphids and other pests.
• The garden was teeming with ladybugs, which helped keep the aphid population under control.
• The ladybug’s spotted shell is a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other beetles.
• In many cultures, ladybugs are considered symbols of good fortune and prosperity.
• The ladybug’s speed and agility allow it to quickly move around the garden, searching for food.

Synonyms

• Beetle
• Insect

Antonyms

• Pesky
• Unwanted

Additional Information

Ladybugs are often found in gardens, meadows, and forests, where they feed on aphids, scales, and other small insects. They are beneficial insects, as they help to control pest populations and maintain ecosystem balance.

Ladybugs have a unique life cycle, which involves four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larvae look like small, legless grubs, while the pupae resemble tiny, immobile beetles.

Etymology

The word “ladybug” is believed to have originated in the 16th century, when European settlers named the insect after its resemblance to the Virgin Mary, with the black spots on its shell representing her cloak.

Usage Notes

When referring to ladybugs, it’s generally more accurate to use the singular form, as the insect is typically an individual rather than a plural entity.

Cultural References

Ladybugs have appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and art. They are often used as symbols of good luck, prosperity, or good fortune.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

There are no common idiomatic expressions or phrases that feature the word “ladybug” explicitly.

Related Words or Phrases

• Beetle
• Insect
• Bug

Collocations

• Ladybug and garden
• Ladybug and aphid
• Ladybug and good luck

Frequency of Use

The word “ladybug” is relatively uncommon in everyday language, but it is often used in certain contexts, such as in gardening, agriculture, or in discussions of insects.

Common Misspellings

• Ladybeetle
• Ladybeeg