Glowworm: meaning, definitions and examples
🪲
glowworm
[ ˈɡloʊˌwɜrm ]
biological term
A glowworm is a larval or adult insect that produces light through a biochemical reaction. This phenomenon is called bioluminescence and is used primarily to attract mates or prey. Glowworms are often found in dark environments like caves and are known for their captivating glow.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The glowworms lit up the dark cave.
- We spotted a glowworm during our night hike.
- The children were amazed by the glowworms in the forest.
Translations
Translations of the word "glowworm" in other languages:
🇵🇹 luciérnaga
🇮🇳 चमकने वाली कीड़ा
🇩🇪 Leuchtkäfer
🇮🇩 kunang-kunang
🇺🇦 світляк
🇵🇱 świetlik
🇯🇵 ホタル
🇫🇷 ver luisant
🇪🇸 luciérnaga
🇹🇷 ateşböceği
🇰🇷 반딧불이
🇸🇦 يرقة مضيئة
🇨🇿 světluška
🇸🇰 svietiaci červ
🇨🇳 萤火虫
🇸🇮 žužemberk
🇮🇸 ljósvormur
🇰🇿 жарық құрт
🇬🇪 ნათება ჭიამაია
🇦🇿 parlayıcı
🇲🇽 luciérnaga
Etymology
The word 'glowworm' originates from Middle English 'glowurm', which combines 'glow', a term for light or to shine, and 'worm', used here in an archaic sense to refer to any creeping creature or insect. Glowworms have fascinated people for centuries due to their unique ability to produce light. This ability is due to luciferin, a light-emitting compound, and luciferase, an enzyme that catalyzes the reaction. The phenomenon of bioluminescence is not just restricted to glowworms; it is found in various species across different environments, showcasing the diverse adaptations of life on Earth. Glowworms feature prominently in literature and folklore, often symbolizing hope or guidance through dark times.