corn borer

American  

noun

1. any of several pyralid moths, as Pyrausta (ostrinia ) nubilalis European corn borer, the larvae of which bore into the stem and crown of corn and other plants.

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corn borer British  

noun

1. the larva of the pyralid moth Pyrausta nubilalis, native to S and Central Europe: in E North America a serious pest of maize

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Etymology

Origin of corn borer

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The first course will be a marinated millet and grilled corn kernel salad with compressed watermelon and avocado sauce, followed by a main course of stuffed portobello mushrooms and creamy saffron-infused risotto.

From New York Times • Jun. 22, 2023

Modi, a strict Hindu who follows a vegetarian diet, will be served a first course that includes a grilled corn kernel salad and tangy avocado sauce, the White House said.

From Reuters • Jun. 21, 2023

This is especially important for any corn product labeled "stone ground" or "whole grain," as these will contain the germ of the corn kernel.

From Salon • Nov. 13, 2022

The upside to all this is that my corn kernel repertory has expanded beyond salads, creamed corn and cornbread.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 29, 2022

The dent corn, again, does not appear upon the flint ear, but in some isolated instances the flint corn kernel may appear upon the dent ear.

From Prairie Farmer, Vol. 56: No. 12, March 22, 1884 A Weekly Journal for the Farm, Orchard and Fireside by Various