cockroach

[kok-rohch]

noun

1. any of numerous orthopterous insects of the family Blattidae, characterized by a flattened body, rapid movements, and nocturnal habits and including several common household pests.

cockroach

/ ˈkɒkˌrəʊtʃ /

noun

1. any insect of the suborder Blattodea (or Blattaria ), such as Blatta orientalis ( oriental cockroach or black beetle ): order Dictyoptera . See also German cockroach mantis

Word History and Origins

Origin of cockroach¹

1615–25; < Spanish cucaracha, of uncertain origin, assimilated by folk etymology to cock ¹, roach ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of cockroach¹

C17: from Spanish cucaracha, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

Many buses in London are infested with cockroaches according to drivers, who want the issue resolved immediately.

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“We have seen cockroaches run around the cash register and they have been found dead in the kitchen,” the complaint read.

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Yes, there are more dangers in space than the famed killer cockroaches designed by H.R.

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I interviewed Copleston numerous times about this episode, and he described to me the sense of being “a cockroach in the spotlight.”

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The report also said 60% of prisoners at the Category B prison were sharing cells that were designed for one person, and there was a widespread infestation of mice and cockroaches.

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Related Words

• ant 
• aphid 
• bee 
• beetle 
• butterfly 
• dragonfly 
• flea 
• fruit fly 
• gnat 
• grasshopper 
• ladybug 
• mite 
• mosquito 
• moth 
• pest 
• spider 
• termite 
• tick