Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Ladybird \La"dy*bird`\, n. [Equiv. to, bird of Our Lady.]
   (Zo["o]l.)
   Any one of numerous species of small beetles of the genus
   {Coccinella} and allied genera (family {Coccinellid[ae]}); --
   called also {ladybug}, {ladyclock}, {lady cow}, {lady fly},
   and {lady beetle}. {Coccinella seplempunctata} in one of the
   common European species. See {Coccinella}.

   Note: The ladybirds are usually more or less hemispherical in
         form, with a smooth, polished surface, and often
         colored red, brown, or black, with small spots of
         brighter colors. Both the larv[ae] and the adult
         beetles of most species feed on aphids, and for this
         reason they are very beneficial to agriculture and
         horticulture.