The word "crotonbug" is an informal term for the insect commonly known as the American cockroach. This insect is often seen as a pest and can be found in homes, restaurants, and other buildings. There are several synonyms for the word "crotonbug" including water bug, palmetto bug, and Bombay canary. While these names are often used interchangeably with "crotonbug," they do refer to different species of cockroach. The use of synonyms for "crotonbug" may vary depending on the region and dialect, but all generally refer to the same type of insect that is often associated with dirty and unsanitary conditions.