rhinoceros beetle

noun

1. any of several scarabaeid beetles, especially of the genus Dynastes, which comprises the largest beetles, characterized by one or more horns on the head and prothorax.

rhinoceros beetle

noun

1. any of various scarabaeid beetles having one or more horns on the head, esp Oryctes rhinoceros , a serious pest on coconut plantations

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhinoceros beetle¹

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

This appears to be the case with those of the Rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes nasicornis), and according to Gould with those of ants.

From Project Gutenberg

This thing, with the ferocious claw-like nose and chin, was a female Rhinoceros beetle, so the owner explained.

From Project Gutenberg

In the woods of this island the large rhinoceros-beetle is very common: it measures above six inches in length.

From Project Gutenberg

Presently, with a loud hum, a great rhinoceros-beetle dashed into my face.

From Project Gutenberg

A quarter of a mile and they came upon a great, gutted shell which had been a rhinoceros beetle the day before.

From Project Gutenberg