emerald ash borer

noun

: a metallic-green Asian beetle (Agrilus planipennis) accidentally introduced into the U.S. and having a destructive larva that bores into the wood of ash trees

Examples of emerald ash borer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now emerald ash borer is killing millions of native ash trees. — Steve Bender, Southern Living, 9 Aug. 2025 The species has been threatened by the invasive emerald ash borer, a beetle that feeds on ash trees. — Marissa Meador, IndyStar, 18 Oct. 2024 Unfortunately, ash trees are now at risk due to the emerald ash borer, a pest that kills them in certain regions. — Samantha Johnson, Martha Stewart, 5 Mar. 2026 The report said the emerald ash borer continues to have devastating impacts on forests around the region. — Caitlin Looby, jsonline.com, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for emerald ash borer

Word History

First Known Use

2002, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of emerald ash borer was in 2002

Rhymes for emerald ash borer

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Browse Nearby Words

emerald
emerald ash borer
emerald copper
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Cite this Entry

“Emerald ash borer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/emerald%20ash%20borer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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