Cockroach \Cock"roach\, n. [Sp. cucaracha.]

(Zo["o]l.) An orthopterous insect of the genus Blatta, and allied genera.

Note: The species are numerous, especially in hot countries. Those most commonly infesting houses in Europe and North America are Blatta orientalis, a large species often called black beetle, and the Croton bug (Ectobia Germanica).

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)