spider mite

noun

: any of various small web-spinning mites (family Tetranychidae) that include destructive pests of plants

called also red spider

Examples of spider mite 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.
It’s also said to keep spider mites and small rodents at bay, too. — Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 24 June 2026 Aphids cluster on the undersides of leaves, and spider mites create webbing under the leaves. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 3 July 2026 Watch for Signs of Pests and Disease Roses are prone to pests such as spider mites, whose symptoms can include discoloration or dark spots on foliage. — Kelly Manning, Martha Stewart, 23 June 2026 Insect Issues Tropical hibiscus can be affected by a variety of pests, including aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. — Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for spider mite

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spider mite was in 1870

Rhymes for spider mite

See All Rhymes for spider mite

Browse Nearby Words

spider milkweed
spider mite
spider monkey
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spider mite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spider%20mite. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

spider mite

noun
: any of various mites that spin webs and include some that attack plants

called also red spider

More from Merriam-Webster on spider mite

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about spider mite

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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