cochineal insect

/ˌkɑtʃəˈniəl ˌɪnˈsɛkt/
IPA guide

Other forms: cochineal insects

Definitions of cochineal insect
  1. noun
    Mexican red scale insect that feeds on cacti; the source of a red dye
    synonyms: Dactylopius coccus, cochineal
    see moresee less
    type of:
    scale insect
    small homopterous insect that usually lives and feeds on plants and secretes a protective waxy covering
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘cochineal insect'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family