spittlebug

[ spit-l-buhg ]

noun

1. the nymph of the froghopper, which surrounds itself with a frothy mass.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spittlebug¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85; spittle + bug ¹

Example Sentences

Most sap-sucking insects drill into a nutrient-dense plant tissue called phloem, but spittlebugs specialize in the much more dilute sap from another tissue, xylem.

From Science Magazine

Why do meadow spittlebugs have so many more host plants?

From Science Daily

Scientists think the spittlebug’s foamy dome of bubbles helps the nymph regulate its temperature and protects it from predators.

From Washington Post

I also learn that while spittlebugs feed on many plants, they create little damage.

From Salon

Spread by spittlebugs and other sap-sucking insects, the resulting disease has no treatment and it is said to have cut Italy's olive harvest to its lowest level in 25 years.

From BBC