# scarab

/skˈæɹæb/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scarab
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a type of beetle that is often shiny and has a hard shell. In ancient Egypt, these insects were very important and even seen as a symbol of life.

For teachers: a beetle of the family Scarabaeidae, typically characterized by a hard, often iridescent exoskeleton. In a historical context, it refers specifically to the sacred scarab of ancient Egypt, often carved into amulets.

## Examples

- The ancient Egyptians often wore jewelry shaped like a scarab.
- During the excavation, archaeologists discovered a golden scarab amulet buried with the pharaoh's remains.
- The scarab, revered as a symbol of rebirth and protection in ancient Egyptian cosmology, continues to influence modern jewelry design and archaeological studies of the Nile Valley.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.