Pronunciation

/ˈkatəˌpɪlər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A caterpillar is the larval stage of an insect, typically having a segmented body and often brightly colored markings, which later transforms into a butterfly or moth.

Examples

1. “The children observed the caterpillar crawling on the leaf.”

2. “The caterpillar began to spin its cocoon in preparation for metamorphosis.”

Additional Information

Caterpillars are known for their voracious appetite and can cause damage to plants and crops, but they also play a vital role in the ecosystem as prey for other animals and as pollinators when they transform into butterflies or moths.