Grub Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grub

[ɡrʌb ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food, informal

Grub is an informal term used to refer to food. It often suggests hearty or filling meals and is commonly used in casual conversation.

Synonyms

food, meal, nourishment.

Examples of usage

  • I'm really hungry, let's grab some grub.
  • After a long hike, some warm grub is exactly what we need.
  • The restaurant serves delicious grub at reasonable prices.
Context #2 | Noun

insect larva

Grub also refers to the larval stage of certain insects, especially beetles. It typically describes a soft, often white or pale creature that feeds on organic matter in the soil.

Synonyms

caterpillar, larva, maggot.

Examples of usage

  • The garden was full of grubs that needed to be removed.
  • Grubs can damage the roots of plants if left unchecked.
  • Some birds dig for grubs to eat them.

Translations

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Origin of 'grub'

The word 'grub' has a rich etymology, originating from the mid-17th century. It comes from the Old English 'grubbian,' which meant to burrow or dig. This connection may relate to the informal use of the word in reference to food, as people often 'dig in' to hearty meals. The term gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly within British English, to describe basic or substantial food, often associated with working-class meals. The larval meaning of 'grub' dates back to the same period and is likely derived from the idea of 'digging' for something edible, hence linking the two usages of the word. Over time, 'grub' has become widely used in various English-speaking cultures, embodying a casual and approachable tone when discussing food.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,166, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.