Pronunciation: [skˈaɹɐbˌiː] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "Scarabee" is actually "scarabaeus". It is pronounced as /skærəˈbiːəs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "sc" in the beginning is pronounced as /sk/ and the "a" is pronounced as schwa /ə/. The double "a" is pronounced as /eɪ/ and the final "us" is pronounced as /əs/. Scarabaeus refers to a type of beetle, which was sacred in ancient Egyptian culture and often depicted in art and jewelry.
Scarabee is a noun that refers to a type of beetle belonging to the subfamily Scarabaeinae, which is characterized by its stout body and clubbed antennae. These beetles are commonly known as scarab beetles and are found in various parts of the world. The name "scarabee" originated from the ancient Greek term "skarabaios" and the Latin term "scarabeus." The name has been widely used to describe different species of these beetles.
Scarabees typically measure around 1 to 3 centimeters in length and have a compact, rounded shape. They are known for their striking and vibrant colors, ranging from metallic green to golden brown. Scarabees are primarily nocturnal and are attracted to dung, which serves as their main source of food. They are considered beneficial insects as they play a crucial role in scavenging and aiding in the decomposition process.
Scarabees hold significant cultural and religious symbolism in several ancient civilizations, particularly in ancient Egypt. They were associated with renewal, resurrection, and regeneration due to their habit of rolling balls of dung, which they use as food and for reproduction, mirroring the movement of the sun and its cycles. Their likenesses were frequently depicted in ancient Egyptian art and architecture, emphasizing their importance and significance in their cultural and religious practices.
In summary, Scarabee is a term used to describe a diverse group of beetles known as scarab beetles. They are characterized by a stout body, clubbed antennae, vibrant colors, and a preference for dung as a food source. Scarabees have cultural and religious significance, particularly in ancient Egyptian civilization, where they symbolize renewal and regeneration.
A beetle; applied to such insects as the elephant and the Hercules beetles; the figure of a beetle, plain or inscribed with characters, habitually worn by the anc. Egyptians and Etrurians as an amulet; the use and meaning of the scarabaeus as a sacred symbol are unknown.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Scarabee" is derived from the Latin word "scarabaeus", which itself comes from the Greek word "karabos". The Greek term refers to a type of dung beetle that was revered in ancient Egyptian culture. The name was later adapted into the Latin language, and from there, it entered other European languages, including French, where it is spelled "scarabée". Ultimately, "Scarabee" became an alternative spelling in English to refer to these beetles or related artifacts.
