noun
Etymology
Origin of bedbug
Explanation
A bedbug is like a tiny vampire that lives in mattresses and couches, feeding on human and animal blood. About the size of an apple seed, these insects are especially frightening in large groups. Bedbugs are tiny, flat insects that feed on human and animal blood, usually at night. These pests have coexisted with humans for thousands of years, hitchhiking around the world in luggage and clothing. Despite their name suggesting a preference for beds, bedbugs can also conceal themselves in unexpected places like electronics and behind wallpaper. Their ability to hide and travel with unsuspecting hosts makes them terrifying invaders in any environment.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A bedbug-sniffing dog deployed by the Encore found a live bedbug on Dec. 5 after a guest complained, according to the news station.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2024
That means that many bedbug encounters go unreported to a government agency, he suggested.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2024
The bedbug break-out during Paris fashion week this fall was obviously horrifying, but the bad news doesn’t stop there.
From Slate • Nov. 19, 2023
In Hong Kong, recent reports of a bedbug sighting on an airport train led to several days of feverish news coverage.
From New York Times • Nov. 18, 2023
If they were going to miss his rants and all his knowledge about random animals and insects, and if Shelly would be able to spot a bedbug like he had taught her.
From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
