apple tree borer

[ ap-uhl tree bawr-er ]

noun

1. Also called flatheaded apple tree borer. the larva of a metallic wood-boring beetle, Chrysobothris femorata, that bores into the wood of apple and other fruit trees.
2. Also called round·head·ed ap·ple tree bor·er [round, -hed-id , ap, -, uh, l tree bawr-er]. the larva of a long-horned beetle, Saperda candida, that bores into the wood of apple and other fruit trees.

Word History and Origins

Origin of apple tree borer¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

The round-headed apple-tree borer eats into the wood at the crown.

From Project Gutenberg

The flat-headed apple-tree borer works just underneath the bark on any part of the trunk or large branches.

From Project Gutenberg

June is the month of all months for the prudent orchardist to go thus armed, for the apple-tree borer is abroad in the land.

From Project Gutenberg

The flat-headed apple tree borer, Chrysobothris femorata, is also a native of this country.

From Project Gutenberg

The flat-headed apple-tree borer works in the sap wood of the pear as in the apple.

From Project Gutenberg