The spelling of the word "chafer" can be confusing because it can be pronounced in different ways depending on the region. In British English, it is pronounced as /ˈtʃeɪfə(r)/ with a long "a" sound in the first syllable. In American English, it is sometimes pronounced as /ˈkæfər/ with a short "a" sound in the first syllable. The word can refer to a type of beetle or to a serving dish. Regardless of how it's pronounced, the correct spelling is "chafer."
A chafer refers to a type of beetle belonging to the family Scarabaeidae. This family encompasses various species of beetles that are known for their distinctive appearance and behavior. Chafers are typically small to medium-sized insects, measuring around 1-2 centimeters in length. They have a distinctive oval or elongated body shape, often covered in a smooth, shiny exoskeleton. Chafers are typically brown or black in color, although some species may exhibit more vibrant hues.
These beetles are considered pests in agriculture as they feed on plant roots, which can result in severe damage to crops and turf grass. Moreover, it is the larvae of chafers that do the most damage, as they are thick, white, C-shaped grubs that live below the soil surface, feeding on the roots of plants. The adult chafers, usually active during spring and summer months, tend to feed on the foliage of various plants, causing further harm.
Chafers are also known for their distinctive flight, often observed during the twilight hours. The adults are attracted to lights, and their buzzing noise can be heard as they fly around outdoor light sources. In addition to their agricultural impact, chafers also play an essential ecological role in their natural habitats. They act as decomposers, feeding on decaying organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Overall, chafers are a diverse group of beetles that can be found in different regions worldwide, known for their agricultural pest status, distinctive appearance, and unique flight behavior.
• A kind of beetle.
• A portable grate for coals.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "chafer" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It comes from the Middle English word "chafere" or "chaffare", which in turn derives from the Old English word "ceap", meaning "a purchase" or "a bargain". Both the Middle English and Old English terms can be traced back to the same Germanic root, "kaupōną", meaning "to bargain" or "to buy". The meaning of "chafer" in modern English refers to an insect belonging to the beetle family Scarabaeidae, often found in lawns and gardens.