Inchworm: meaning, definitions and examples
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inchworm
[ ˈɪnʧˌwɜrm ]
animal type
An inchworm is a common name for the larval stage of certain moths in the family Geometridae, known for their characteristic looping gait. They are often slender and green or brown, which provides them with excellent camouflage among leaves and branches. Inchworms are typically found on trees and shrubs, where they feed on leaves. The name 'inchworm' comes from the way they move, appearing to measure the distance they travel by inching along.
Synonyms
geometer, looping caterpillar, measuring worm
Examples of usage
- I spotted an inchworm hanging from the tree branches.
- The inchworm's green color helped it blend into the foliage.
- Kids enjoy watching inchworms crawl across the garden.
- Inchworms are fascinating creatures to observe in nature.
Translations
Translations of the word "inchworm" in other languages:
🇵🇹 lagarta medidora
🇮🇳 इंचवर्म
🇩🇪 Zollwurm
🇮🇩 ulat inci
🇺🇦 дюймовик
🇵🇱 dżdżownica calowa
🇯🇵 インチワーム
🇫🇷 chenille
🇪🇸 oruga de regla
🇹🇷 inç solucanı
🇰🇷 인치벌레
🇸🇦 دودة البوصة
🇨🇿 pavouk palce
🇸🇰 palcový červ
🇨🇳 英寸虫
🇸🇮 inč črv
🇮🇸 tommuormur
🇰🇿 дюйм құрт
🇬🇪 ინჩვორმი
🇦🇿 düymlü qurbağa
🇲🇽 oruga de regla
Etymology
The term 'inchworm' dates back to the early 19th century and is derived from the way these caterpillars move, which resembles the act of measuring an inch. The name is linked to the family name Geometridae, with 'geo' meaning earth and 'metron' meaning measure, reflecting the belief that the caterpillars measured the distance they covered as they crawled. The early forms of the word have been found in literature describing the looping movement of these caterpillars. The inchworm's unique appearance and behavior have made it a subject of fascination and inspiration in children's literature and nature studies, often being characterized in a way that resonates with the youthful curiosity about the natural world.