thrips

noun

plural thrips
: any of an order (Thysanoptera) of small to minute sucking insects many of which feed often destructively on plant juices

Examples of thrips in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Count on the strong aromatic oils of oregano (Origanum vulgare) to naturally repel aphids, spider mites, thrips, and beetles around your pepper plants. Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2026 Its aromatic oils are known to deter pests like thrips, aphids, whiteflies, and Japanese beetles, which commonly target bean plants. Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 27 May 2026 Extracted from the seeds of the neem tree, the essential oil interferes with the reproduction and feeding of pests like aphids, whiteflies, and thrips. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 19 May 2026 The odor masks the scent of animals' preferred vegetables and confuses insect pests, including aphids, carrot flies, cabbage worms and loopers, spider mites, thrips, and Japanese beetles. Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 3 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for thrips

Word History

Etymology

Latin, woodworm, from Greek

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thrips was in 1795

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Cite this Entry

“Thrips.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thrips. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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