from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Phylloxera \Phyl`lox*e"ra\, n. [NL., fr. Gr. fy`llon leaf +
xhro`s dry.]
1. (Zool.) A small hemipterous insect ({Phylloxera
vastatrix}) allied to the aphids. It attacks the roots and
leaves of the grapevine, doing great damage, especially in
Europe.
[1913 Webster]
Note: It exists in several forms, some of which are winged,
other wingless. One form produces galls on the leaves
and twigs, another affects the roots, causing galls or
swellings, and often killing the vine.
[1913 Webster]
2. The diseased condition of a vine caused by the insect just
described.
[1913 Webster]