larvae Definition
the active immature form of an insect, especially one that differs greatly from the adult and forms the stage between egg and pupa.
Using larvae: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "larvae" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The larvae of the mosquito can be found in stagnant water.
Example
The larvae of the butterfly is called a caterpillar.
Example
The larvae of the beetle feeds on decaying wood.
Example
The larvae of the ant develops into a pupa before becoming an adult.
larvae Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for larvae
- caterpillar
- grub
- maggot
- nymph
Phrases with larvae
the immature form of an aquatic insect, such as a mosquito or dragonfly, that lives in water
Example
The aquatic larvae of the mosquito can be found in standing water.
soil-dwelling larvae
the immature form of an insect that lives in soil, such as a beetle or fly
Example
The soil-dwelling larvae of the beetle feeds on decaying wood.
leaf-mining larvae
the immature form of an insect that feeds on the inside of leaves, such as a moth or fly
Example
The leaf-mining larvae of the moth can cause damage to crops.
Summary: larvae in Brief
'Larvae' [ˈlɑːrviː] are the active immature form of insects, such as caterpillars, maggots, and nymphs. They differ greatly from the adult form and develop between the egg and pupa stages. Examples include the aquatic larvae of mosquitoes and the soil-dwelling larvae of beetles. 'Larvae' can also refer to leaf-mining larvae that feed on the inside of leaves.
