locust
UK: ˈləʊkəst | US: ˈloʊkəst
n. a large, migratory grasshopper that often travels in swarms and causes significant damage to crops
n. (historical) a type of hardwood tree, also known as "black locust" or "false acacia"
No data yet.
The word "locust" traces back to Latin locusta, meaning both "grasshopper" and "lobster" (likely due to their similar segmented bodies). This Latin term passed into Old French as locuste before entering Middle English. The dual meaning in Latin reflects an ancient association between swarming insects and crustaceans. Over time, English specialized "locust" for the insect, while "lobster" (from Latin lupus + locusta) took the crustacean meaning.
Farmers feared the locust swarm would destroy their entire harvest.
The biblical plague of locusts symbolizes devastation.
Black locust trees are valued for their durable timber.
Scientists study locust behavior to predict swarm movements.
After the drought, locusts invaded the fields, leaving nothing green behind.