Coccinella \Coc`ci*nel"la\, n. [NL., fr. L. coccineus scarlet-colored. See {Cochoneal}.] (Zool.) A genus of small beetles of many species. They and their larv[ae] feed on aphids or plant lice, and hence are of great benefit to man. Also called {ladybirds} and {ladybugs}. [1913 Webster]