ladybug

noun

la·​dy·​bug ˈlā-dē-ˌbəg How to pronounce ladybug (audio)
: any of numerous small nearly hemispherical often brightly colored often spotted beetles (family Coccinellidae) of temperate and tropical regions that usually feed both as larvae and adults on other insects (such as aphids)

called also lady beetle, ladybird, ladybird beetle

Illustration of ladybug

Illustration of ladybug

Examples of ladybug 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.
On her fingertips were little ladybugs dotting her nails, courtesy of nail artist Elle Gerstein. — Diana Tsui, Footwear News, 24 May 2026 This olive, chartreuse, and buttercream pedicure features daisies and ladybugs, giving it a grounding allure. — Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 5 July 2026 Imagine seeing a ladybug, checking over your shoulder to see if anyone is watching, eating it, then going and buying a scratcher. — Matt Reigle Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2026 But in the garden, chervil is a powerhouse plant that can deter slugs and snails, while attracting beneficial bugs like hoverflies and ladybugs. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ladybug

Word History

Etymology

Our Lady, the Virgin Mary

First Known Use

1699, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ladybug was in 1699

Rhymes for ladybug

See All Rhymes for ladybug

Browse Nearby Words

lady bracken
ladybug
lady chair
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

ladybug

noun
la·​dy·​bug -ˌbəg How to pronounce ladybug (audio)
: any of numerous small roundish-backed often brightly colored and spotted beetles that usually feed both when young and adult on other insects (as aphids)

More from Merriam-Webster on ladybug

Nglish: Translation of ladybug for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ladybug

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