rhinoceros beetle

American  

noun

1. any of several scarabaeid beetles, especially of the genus Dynastes, which comprises the largest beetles, characterized by one or more horns on the head and prothorax.

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rhinoceros beetle British  

noun

1. any of various scarabaeid beetles having one or more horns on the head, esp Oryctes rhinoceros , a serious pest on coconut plantations

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Etymology

Origin of rhinoceros beetle

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

They found that Walliserops’ weapon most resembles that of the Japanese rhinoceros beetle, which uses its rake-shaped horn to flip rival suitors.

From New York Times • Jan. 16, 2023

Chances are good that you would be startled to find a rhinoceros beetle perched over your bed one night.

From Washington Post • Jan. 11, 2022

Guamanian ecologists fretted about the impact of the invasive brown tree snake on the island's bird population and the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle on its palms.

From Time • Aug. 16, 2017

In one, a shiny rhinoceros beetle perches on a chunk of honeycomb.

From New York Times • Dec. 29, 2012

In his lack of experience he had planted his paw directly upon a giant rhinoceros beetle with bristling, thorn-like “antlers” one of which had penetrated the skin between the pads.

From The Black Phantom by Miller, Leo E. (Leo Edward)