Caterpillar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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caterpillar
[หkรฆtษrหpษชlษr ]
Definition
insect stage
A caterpillar is the larval stage of members of the order Lepidoptera, which includes butterflies and moths. Usually characterized by a long, segmented body and many legs, caterpillars undergo a transformative process known as metamorphosis before emerging as adult butterflies or moths.
Synonyms
caterpillar larva, insect, larva.
Examples of usage
- The caterpillar crawled slowly along the leaf.
- Children enjoyed watching the caterpillar turn into a butterfly.
- Some caterpillars can be quite colorful and attract attention.
- The caterpillar builds a chrysalis before becoming a butterfly.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Caterpillars eat a lot, often consuming their own body weight in leaves every day as they prepare for transformation.
- They have a unique way of moving; their body contracts and releases muscles in a wave-like motion, which helps them crawl.
- Some species employ camouflage or mimicry to avoid predators, blending into their surroundings or resembling other animals.
Literature
- In the classic children's book 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' by Eric Carle, the caterpillar illustrates growth and metamorphosis through its journey.
- Caterpillars are often symbolic in literature, representing change, growth, and the potential for transformation.
- The theme of a caterpillar evolving into a butterfly is frequently used in motivational speeches to inspire personal change.
Pop Culture
- Caterpillars often appear in movies and cartoons, like in Disney's 'Alice in Wonderland' where a caterpillar gives advice.
- The transformation from caterpillar to butterfly has made it a popular metaphor in various TV shows, signifying personal growth.
- In modern art and fashion, caterpillar designs are often used to evoke themes of nature and transformation.
Science
- Caterpillars possess a unique ability called instar, allowing them to molt several times and grow drastically between stages.
- Once they reach maturity, they undergo a process called pupation, where they form a chrysalis to become a butterfly.
- Research has shown that the diets of caterpillars can influence the colors and patterns of the butterflies they develop into.
Origin of 'caterpillar'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'caterpillar' comes from the Old French 'caterpille,' which originally referred to a 'hairy cat' or 'cat worm.'
- In some languages, the word directly translates to 'hairy worm,' reflecting their appearance.
- The scientific term for a caterpillar is 'larva,' marking it as the immature stage of butterflies and moths.
The word 'caterpillar' originates from Middle English, derived from the combination of 'catir' (meaning 'cat') and 'piler' (meaning 'a hair'). This term reflects the resemblance of these insectsโ fuzzy bodies to the fur of a cat. The word has evolved over time, influencing other languages and developing associations with transformation and change due to the caterpillar's metamorphosis into a butterfly or moth. The term became widely used in English by the 15th century and has since been a critical part of biological discussions regarding the life cycles of insects.