Search Dictionary
Definition of bedbug

bedbug

/ˈbɛd.bʌɡ/
bed · bug
Plural:bedbugs
JUMP TO:

bedbug Lexical Profile

bedbug Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small, flat, wingless parasitic insect (Cimex lectularius) that feeds on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals, typically active at night and frequently found infesting mattresses and bedding.

Example

"After discovering a bedbug on her pillow, she immediately called a professional exterminator to inspect the entire house."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bedbug

• Rhymes for bedbug

• Nearby Words

bedazzling
bedbath
bedboard
bedbug
bedchamber
bedclothes
bedcover

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed as a compound of 'bed' + 'bug' in the mid-16th century, named for the insect's tendency to infest sleeping areas and bite humans at night.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bedbug. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bedbug
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.