imported cabbage worm

noun

: a small European white butterfly (Pieris rapae) introduced into temperate regions worldwide
also : its green larva that is a pest of cruciferous plants and especially cabbage

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of imported cabbage worm was in 1892

Dictionary Entries Near imported cabbage worm

Cite this Entry

“Imported cabbage worm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/imported%20cabbage%20worm. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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