June bug

American  

Or Junebug

noun

1. Also called May beetle.  any of several large, brown beetles of the genus Phyllophaga, of the scarab family, appearing in late spring and early summer.

2. green June beetle.

3. Chiefly Northern and North Midland U.S. a firefly.

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June bug British  

noun

1. Also called: May beetle.   May bug.  any of various large brown North American scarabaeid beetles that are common in late spring and early summer, esp any of the genus Polyphylla

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Etymology

Origin of June bug

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

The memories suddenly came rushing back to me: Jemma used to put grasshoppers in my hair to frighten me, and I liked to put June bugs on her shoulders to give her a shock.

From Literature

The only sound comes from green June bugs buzzing by her ears and children playing at the community center across the street.

From Los Angeles Times

He looked up from the June bug he had caught and tied to a string.

From Literature

Unlike cicadas, June bugs are an annual nuisance.

From New York Times

June bugs, tailgates, sprawling skies, honking cars and all.

From New York Times