Cochineal (noun)

An insect of the Dactylopius genus, which is used to produce a red dye, particularly the Dactylopius coccus species.

Origin:

From the spanish word "cochinilla" meaning scale insect, it refers to an insect of the dactylopius genus, which is used to produce a red dye.

Examples:

1. Cochineal dye was used to color fabrics, food, and cosmetics.
2. The cochineal insect is a small scale insect that feeds on cactus plants.
3. Cochineal dye is a natural alternative to synthetic red dyes.
4. The cochineal dye was extracted by crushing the insects.
5. Cochineal dye was an important trade item in the pre-Columbian era.