phylloxera

[ fil-uhk-seer-uh, fi-lok-ser-uh ]

noun

, plural phyl·lox·e·rae [fil-, uh, k-, seer, -ee, fi-, lok, -s, uh, -ree], phyl·lox·e·ras.

1. any of several plant lice of the genus Phylloxera, especially P. vitifoliae grape phylloxera, which attacks the leaves and roots of grapevines.

phylloxera

/ ˌfɪlɒkˈsɪərə; fɪˈlɒksərə /

noun

1. any homopterous insect of the genus Phylloxera, such as P. vitifolia (or Viteus vitifolii ) ( vine phylloxera ), typically feeding on plant juices, esp of vines: family Phylloxeridae

Word History and Origins

Origin of phylloxera¹

1865–70; < New Latin (1834) < Greek phyllo- phyllo- + xērá, feminine of xērós dry; so named in reference to the dessication of leaves caused by some species

Word History and Origins

Origin of phylloxera¹

C19: from New Latin phyllo- + Greek xēros dry

Example Sentences

Along the way, she saw Napa survive the phylloxera crisis of the 1990s, when entire vineyards had to be replanted because of an insect infestation.

From Washington Post

Phylloxera struck in the late 19th century, and in the 20th century, Soviet winemaking mandates encouraged quantity above quality.

From The Daily Beast

The original vines on the estate perished in the late 19th century from oidium and phylloxera, and Klein Constantia shut down.

From The Daily Beast

It is said to be the most effectual preventive of black rot, and to destroy the Phylloxera, the two worst enemies of the grape.

From Project Gutenberg

The Phylloxera pest, which has wrought such havoc among vineyards throughout Europe, has invaded California also.

From Project Gutenberg

The roots are strong, thick and very resistant to phylloxera.

From Project Gutenberg

Like those of Riparia, the roots are slender, hard, and resistant to the phylloxera.

From Project Gutenberg

Riparia is very resistant to phylloxera, the roots are small in size, hard and numerous and branch freely.

From Project Gutenberg