Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Phylloxera \Phyl`lox*e"ra\, n. [NL., fr. Gr. ? leaf + ? dry.]
   1. (Zo["o]l.) 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.

   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.

   2. The diseased condition of a vine caused by the insect just
      described.