caterpillar Definition
- 1the larva of a butterfly or moth, having numerous legs and a segmented body
- 2a vehicle used for heavy-duty hauling, consisting of a tractor and trailer
Using caterpillar: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "caterpillar" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The children were fascinated by the caterpillar crawling on the leaf.
Example
The company used a fleet of caterpillars to transport the heavy machinery.
Example
The caterpillar will eventually form a cocoon and emerge as a butterfly.
caterpillar Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with caterpillar
a continuous band of metal plates used to propel vehicles over rough terrain
Example
The tank's caterpillar tracks allowed it to traverse difficult terrain with ease.
a parasitic fungus that infects and mummifies caterpillars, used in traditional Chinese medicine
Example
Caterpillar fungus is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine for its supposed health benefits.
a type of ground beetle that preys on caterpillars
Example
The caterpillar hunter is a natural predator of many types of caterpillars.
Summary: caterpillar in Brief
A 'caterpillar' [ˈkætərˌpɪlər] is either the larva of a butterfly or moth, or a heavy-duty vehicle consisting of a tractor and trailer. The former is characterized by a segmented body and numerous legs, while the latter is used for hauling. Examples include 'The children were fascinated by the caterpillar crawling on the leaf.' and 'The company used a fleet of caterpillars to transport the heavy machinery.'
