ˈhumˌbuzz dial.
[f. hum v. + buzz v.]
1. A local name of the cockchafer.
| 1756 W. Toldervy Two Orphans I. 124 What are there called humbuzes, by the Londoners cock-chafers. c 1820 Mrs. Sherwood May-bee 13 William had caught another may-bee, or cockchafer, or humbuzz (for so that insect is called in different places). |
2. A thin piece of wood with a notched edge which is swung round rapidly by a string, and emits a loud humming sound, like the flight of a cockchafer; a bull-roarer.
| 1847–78 in Halliwell. |