harvest-bug
Noun: A small, red mite (of the family Trombiculidae) that is parasitic in its larval stage, often causing intense itching and skin irritation in humans and animals. It is also known as a chigger or harvest mite.
- (The larvae of the mite were visible on her skin.)
- (This mite’s peak activity coincides with the time of year when crops are gathered.)
"Harvest-bug bite": a skin lesion caused by the feeding of the larval mite.
- The harvest-bug bite left a red, itchy welt that lasted for days. (The bite resulted in a raised, irritated spot on the skin.)
"Harvest-bug season": the time of year when these mites are most prevalent.
- We avoid sitting on the grass during harvest-bug season to prevent bites. (We stay off the ground when the mites are active.)
Harvest mite (n): another term for the same arachnid, especially in its larval stage.
- The harvest mite is barely visible to the naked eye. (The mite is extremely small.)
Chigger (n): a common North American name for the harvest-bug larva.
- Chiggers are notorious for causing severe itching in the groin and armpit areas. (These mites prefer warm, moist parts of the body.)
- Red bug: a colloquial term for the harvest-bug due to its reddish color.
- Trombiculid mite: the scientific family name for these mites.
- Scrub itch mite: a term used in some regions for the harvest-bug.
"To be bitten by the harvest-bug": (informal, humorous) to become intensely interested or obsessed with something, especially farming or rural life.
- Ever since he moved to the countryside, he’s been bitten by the harvest-bug and talks only about crops. (He has become very enthusiastic about agricultural matters.)
"Harvest-bug fever": a playful expression for the irritation or excitement caused by harvest season.
- The farmers had harvest-bug fever as the grain ripened in the fields. (They were very busy and excited during the harvest period.)