spanworm Definition
the larva of any of several geometrid moths that have the habit of measuring their length in making short, looping motions: a pest of fruit and shade trees..
Using spanworm: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spanworm" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The spanworms are eating the leaves of my apple tree.
Example
The spanworm infestation has caused significant damage to the orchard.
Phrases with spanworm
fall cankerworm
a type of spanworm that feeds on deciduous trees in the fall
Example
The fall cankerworm is a common pest in the eastern United States.
spring cankerworm
a type of spanworm that feeds on deciduous trees in the spring
Example
The spring cankerworm is a common pest in the eastern United States.
any of several caterpillars that move by drawing themselves forward with the hind legs and bringing the front legs forward to the same position
Example
The measuring worm is so named because it appears to be measuring the ground as it moves along.
Summary: spanworm in Brief
A 'spanworm' [span-wurm] is the larva of a geometrid moth that moves by measuring its length in short, looping motions. It is a pest that feeds on fruit and shade trees, causing significant damage to orchards. Other types of spanworms include the fall cankerworm and the spring cankerworm, which feed on deciduous trees in the respective seasons.
