Synonyms for

Roach

Verb / rəʊtʃ / Another word for roach — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a type of insect that is typically dark brown and is often found in dirty or damp places

Synonyms & similar words

cockroach circle roofy rope rophy mexicanvalium forgetmedrug r rutilusrutilus cockroach waterbug creepy-crawly insect vermin pest critter beetle bug creep creepy-crawly worm maggot larva grub caterpillar spider

Synonyms by register

Formal

Blattodea cockroach

Informal

bug critter pest

Literary

vermin scuttler

Antonyms

angel butterfly ladybug dragonfly firefly beetle

Common collocations

  • dead roach
  • cockroach infestation
  • giant roach
  • roach spray
  • roach motel
  • roach killer
  • cockroach problem

Word family

noun roach

Usage note

The word 'roach' is a common informal term for a cockroach. It can sometimes be used metaphorically to refer to something undesirable or unpleasant.

Example sentences

  1. I saw a roach in the bathroom and screamed.
  2. My cat likes to play with roaches.
  3. The apartment building has a roach infestation.
  4. I hate roaches because they are so creepy.
  5. The roach crawled across the counter and I had to kill it.

Quotes

  • "It's not the cockroaches' fault that they're disgusting. It's what they were programmed to do." - Chuck Palahniuk
  • "The cockroach is the most successful species on earth. That's why I hate them." - Chuck Palahniuk
  • "I've seen a cockroach eat a used tampon. Cockroaches eat everything." - Chuck Palahniuk

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