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Crawler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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crawler

[ˈkrɔːlər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

web development

A program that systematically browses the internet and collects information, typically for search engines.

Synonyms

bot, spider, web crawler.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
crawler

Used generally in the context of software applications that browse the web in a methodical way. It is a broad term and can be used interchangeably to describe any type of automated web browsing software.

  • Website administrators need to ensure their sites are friendly to crawlers for better indexing
spider

Commonly used in the context of search engines, a spider is a specific type of crawler mainly focused on collecting content from websites to build searchable indexes.

  • Google uses spiders to crawl and index web pages so they can appear in search results
bot

A more general term that can refer to any automated software that performs tasks over the internet, not limited to web browsing. This might include chatbots, trading bots, etc.

  • Many customer service websites now use bots to answer common questions and assist users
web crawler

This term is used specifically for crawlers that browse the World Wide Web for the purpose of web indexing, similar to a spider but with a more explicit reference to the web.

  • Developers need to be aware of web crawlers when designing their websites to ensure proper indexing by search engines

Examples of usage

  • A crawler is used by search engines to index web pages.
  • The crawler gathered data from various websites for analysis.
Context #2 | Noun

animal

A slow-moving animal that typically moves close to the ground.

Synonyms

crawly, creep, creeper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
crawler

This seems to be a repetition of the word 'crawler'. 'Crawler' can also refer to someone who flatters or fawns over others to gain favors, which can have a negative connotation.

  • He's such a crawler, always agreeing with the boss on everything
creep

Used to describe someone who behaves in a weird or unsettling way, typically in a negative sense. It can also describe the action of moving slowly and carefully to avoid being noticed.

  • He's a bit of a creep, always staring at people
  • She had to creep quietly so as not to wake the baby
creeper

Refers to a plant that grows along the ground or up surfaces. It can also describe a person who behaves in a strange or overly attentive way that makes others uncomfortable, carrying a negative connotation.

  • The ivy is a fast-growing creeper that covered the entire wall
  • That guy is such a creeper, he keeps following people around
crawly

Used informally to describe something, typically an insect, that crawls and may make people feel uneasy or give them the creeps.

  • I can't stand all these crawly bugs invading the house

Examples of usage

  • The crawler made its way across the forest floor.
  • The baby crawler explored the room on all fours.
Context #3 | Noun

baby

A baby who is learning to crawl.

Synonyms

crawler baby, crawling baby.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
crawler

When used twice, 'crawler, crawler' refers to a person or thing in a derogatory or humorous way, implying that they are very slow or cumbersome.

  • Look at that crawler, crawler; he'll never make it up the hill at this pace.
crawler baby

Used to describe a baby who has just started to crawl. This term is often used in discussions about parenting and child development.

  • Our crawler baby is getting into everything lately, so we had to baby-proof the house.
crawling baby

Similar to 'crawler baby,' but emphasizes the action of crawling. It's often used to describe a baby in the act of moving around on all fours.

  • I found a cute video of a crawling baby who was exploring the living room.

Examples of usage

  • The little crawler giggled as it moved across the room.
  • The crawler reached out to grab a toy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Many species of insects, like caterpillars, are considered crawlers during their larval stages, helping them feed on plants.
  • There are crawling animals, such as slugs and snails, that use mucus to glide while appearing to crawl along surfaces.
  • In the animal kingdom, lumbering creatures like bears and some reptiles are also referred to as crawlers due to their slow movement.

Technology

  • Web crawlers are essential for search engines, as they gather information from across the internet to help users find what they are looking for.
  • These crawlers work non-stop, visiting web pages constantly to detect updates and changes in content.
  • Without crawlers, search engines wouldn't have the information needed to display the most relevant results to users.

Cultural References

  • In childhood, baby crawlers around the house symbolize growth and early development milestones.
  • Interestingly, the term 'crawler' is also used colloquially in gaming to refer to slow-moving enemies, creating a fun challenge for players.
  • Numerous films and stories feature characters who 'crawl' as a metaphor for struggle or a journey, like a hero overcoming obstacles.

Psychology

  • Crawling is often associated with early motor skill development in infants, which is crucial for later physical coordination.
  • Psychologists study crawling patterns to understand developmental milestones and the connections between physical movement and cognitive growth.
  • The act of crawling can also invoke a sense of vulnerability, influencing how people perceive safety and trust in their environment.

Origin of 'crawler'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Crawler' comes from the Old English word 'crawlian', which means to creep or move slowly.
  • The term has been used in various contexts, from describing animals to describing crawling movements in general.
  • In technology, 'crawler' refers to a program or bot that explores the internet by following links, using a similar concept of slow, methodical exploration.

The word 'crawler' has multiple meanings and origins. In the context of web development, it originated from the action of a program crawling the web like a spider to gather information. The term 'crawler' for a slow-moving animal close to the ground has been used for centuries to describe such creatures. When referring to a baby learning to crawl, the term 'crawler' is a cute and endearing way to describe this developmental stage in infants.

See also: crawl, crawling, crawly.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,638, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.