cockroach

[kok-rohch] /ˈkɒkˌroʊtʃ/

noun

any of numerous orthopterous insects of the family Blattidae, characterized by a flattened body, rapid movements, and nocturnal habits and including several common household pests.

Also called roach.

Compare American cockroach, German cockroach, oriental cockroach.

Origin

1615-25; < Spanish cucaracha, of uncertain origin, assimilated by folk etymology to cock¹, roach²

British Dictionary definitions for cockroach

cockroach

/ˈkɒkˌrəʊtʃ/

noun

any insect of the suborder Blattodea (or Blattaria), such as Blatta orientalis (oriental cockroach or black beetle): order Dictyoptera. They have an oval flattened body with long antennae and biting mouthparts and are common household pests See also German cockroach, mantis

Word Origin

C17: from Spanish cucaracha, of obscure origin

Word Origin and History for cockroach

1620s, folk etymology (as if from cock + roach) of Spanish cucaracha "chafer, beetle," from cuca "kind of caterpillar." Folk etymology also holds that the first element is from caca "excrement."

A certaine India Bug, called by the Spaniards a Cacarootch, the which creeping into Chests they eat and defile with their ill-sented dung [Capt. John Smith, "Virginia," 1624].