Argentine ant

noun

1. a small brown ant, Iridomyrmex humilis, introduced into the southern U.S. from South America: a household and fruit pest.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Argentine ant¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

At first it might be hard to distinguish the red imported fire ant from the sugar-loving Argentine ant, but a key distinction is the red imported fire ants’ aggressive nature.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite what the stream of ants in your back yard might indicate, the Argentine ant is not the only species in town.

From Los Angeles Times

In March, Tobias and Mr. Zimmerman underwent weeks of basic Argentine ant training.

From New York Times

From the American mink to the lionfish and the Argentine ant.

From BBC

Summer in California is Argentine ant season.

From The Verge