: any of various neuropterous insects (such as genera Chrysopa and Hemerobius) having delicate lacelike wing venation, long antennae, and often brilliant eyes

called also lacewing fly

Illustration of lacewing

Illustration of lacewing

Examples of lacewing 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.
The goal of the lacewings is not to wipe out the leafhopper population. Michelle Williams, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026 Lady beetles, lacewings, syrphid flies, spiders and birds all play their part in my garden. Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2026 At the same time, calendula attracts ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on aphids. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 26 June 2026 Though the scent can deter mosquitoes, beneficial insects like bees, lacewings, and butterflies love the tiny flowers. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lacewing

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lacewing was in 1912

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Cite this Entry

“Lacewing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lacewing. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

: any of various insects that have delicate lacelike wings, long antennae, and often bright eyes

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