periodical cicada

noun

1. seventeen-year locust.

Word History and Origins

Origin of periodical cicada¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

That makes American suburbia “periodical cicada heaven,” he said.

From Seattle Times

The research team says this is one of only a few studies that has explored the indirect effects of periodical cicada emergence events on forest food webs.

From Science Daily

These images help scientists determine trends in periodical cicada populations, according to Gene Kritsky, a professor emeritus at Mount St. Joseph University in Ohio who helped create the app.

From National Geographic

While these mites are always around, they become “particularly abundant” in times and places where there is a periodical cicada brood emergence, he said.

From Washington Times

It has been several weeks since the exit of Brood X of the 17-year periodical cicada, and I know I’m not alone in missing these enchanting ruby-eyed creatures and the otherworldly soundtrack of their chirping.

From Washington Post