sow bug

[ sou ]

noun

1. any of several small, terrestrial isopods, especially of the genus Oniscus; wood louse.

sow bug

/ saʊ /

noun

1. any of various woodlice, esp any of the genera Oniscus and Porcellio

Word History and Origins

Origin of sow bug¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Word History and Origins

Origin of sow bug¹

C18: from its resemblance to a pig in shape

Example Sentences

The sow bugs or pill bugs that spent time in the container with the dry soil probably only stayed there temporarily before going back to the damp soil.

From Scientific American

We spot a sow bug, resembling a speck of dirt on a gray rock.

From New York Times

The group includes the terrestrial pill bugs and sow bugs, with numerous marine forms.

From Project Gutenberg

Although sow bugs and pill bugs are amazing in that they're crustaceans that have adapted to live on land, they still need moisture to breathe and survive.

From Scientific American

One group of critters that can usually be found just about anywhere on land includes the familiar sow bugs and pill bugs.

From Scientific American