pickleworm

[ pik-uhl-wurm ]

noun

1. the larva of a pyralid moth, Diaphania nitidalis, that bores into the stem and fruit of squash, cucumber, and other cucurbitaceous plants.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pickleworm¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; pickle ¹ + worm

Example Sentences

Peach started out with a set of basic problems and pests that plague many farmers here: Drought, pickleworm, melon fly and powdery mildew.

From Washington Times