cockroach

noun

cock·​roach ˈkäk-ˌrōch How to pronounce cockroach (audio)
: any of an order or suborder (Blattodea synonym Blattaria) of chiefly nocturnal insects including some that are domestic pests compare german cockroach

Examples of cockroach in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The leaves are also a home for pests (including cockroaches) and create the perfect environment for lawn fungus to thrive. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 29 Dec. 2025 The 200-unit building for seniors and people with disabilities has seen bedbug and cockroach infestations. Sam Tabachnik, Denver Post, 11 Dec. 2025 Sacramento County health inspectors closed a local Mexican restaurant and Asian supermarket after discovering leaky toilets, dozens of cockroaches and other food safety violations. Sacbee.com, 5 Dec. 2025 Rats, cockroaches and piles of trash are frequent sights for some neighbors living near Pulaski Park on South 15th Place on Milwaukee’s south side. Alyssa N. Salcedo, jsonline.com, 1 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cockroach

Word History

Etymology

by folk etymology from Spanish cucaracha cockroach

First Known Use

1616, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cockroach was in 1616

Cite this Entry

“Cockroach.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cockroach. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

cockroach

noun
cock·​roach -ˌrōch How to pronounce cockroach (audio)
: any of an order of quick-moving insects that have long antennae and leathery forewings, are mainly nocturnal, and include pests of human dwellings

Medical Definition

cockroach

noun
cock·​roach ˈkäk-ˌrōch How to pronounce cockroach (audio)
: any of an order or suborder (Blattodea synonym Blattaria) of chiefly nocturnal insects including some that are domestic pests see blatta, blattella, periplaneta

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