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Definition of pillbug

pillbug

/ˈpɪlˌbʌɡ/
pill · bug
Plural:pillbugs
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pillbug Lexical Profile

pillbug Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A small, segmented terrestrial isopod crustacean belonging to the family Armadillidiidae, characterized by its ability to roll its body into a tight sphere when threatened.

Example

"When the curious toddler poked the pillbug with a leaf, it immediately curled up into a protective little ball."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pillbug

• Rhymes for pillbug

• Nearby Words

pileated woodpecker
pill
pillar
pillbug
pillow
pillowcase
pilotfish

Word Origin & Etymology

Compound of 'pill' and 'bug', named in the late 19th century for the creature's ability to roll itself into a tight, round sphere resembling a medicinal pill when threatened.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pillbug. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pillbug
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