water bug

• Nom générique désignant divers insectes aquatiques, comme les blattes vivant près de l'eau ou les vrais punaises d'eau, par exemple la punaise d'eau géante. Peut aussi désigner un petit bateau à moteur rapide.

A common name for various aquatic insects, such as cockroaches that live near water or true water bugs like the giant water bug. It can also refer to a small, fast motorboat.

1. Aquatic insectB1formal

   A general term for various insects that live in or near water, such as water beetles or water striders.

   insecte aquatique

   • The pond was full of water bugs skimming across the surface.
   • A water bug crawled out of the drain in the basement.
   • Children love watching water bugs in the creek.

2. Cockroach (slang)B1informalamerican

   A slang term, particularly in some regions of the US, for a large cockroach that is often found in damp areas like basements or sewers.

   Cafard des lieux humides (argot)

   • I saw a huge water bug in the bathroom last night.
   • He screamed when a water bug ran across the kitchen floor.
   • The exterminator said water bugs are common in old buildings.