gribble

[ grib-uh l ]

/ ˈgrɪb əl /

a small, marine isopod crustacean of the genus Limnoria that destroys submerged timber by boring into it.

Origin of gribble

First recorded in 1830–40; perhaps akin to grub

It was a relief to Mr. Gribble when his wife came downstairs again, and he was cheered to see that she looked much better.

The Weaker Vessel |W.W. Jacobs
Gribble junior surveyed these proceedings with considerable interest.

London's Heart |B. L. (Benjamin Leopold) Farjeon
Gribble junior relished this attention on the part of the public.

London's Heart |B. L. (Benjamin Leopold) Farjeon
Mr. Gribble opened his mouth, and then, realizing the inadequacy of the English language for moments of stress, closed it again.

The Weaker Vessel |W.W. Jacobs

The occasion was made quite a holiday by Mrs. Podmore and Mrs. Gribble junior.

London's Heart |B. L. (Benjamin Leopold) Farjeon

gribble

/ (ˈɡrɪbəl) /

any small marine isopod crustacean of the genus Limnoria, which bores into and damages wharves and other submerged wooden structures

C19: perhaps related to grub