Meaning & Definition of word "Tadpole"
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Tadpole
/ˈtædˌpoʊl/
noun:
- 1. A young amphibian, specifically the larval stage of a frog or toad, characterized by a long tail and lack of limbs.
- Example: The pond was filled with tadpoles swimming eagerly in the warm water.
- 2. The larval form of a frog or toad, typically having gills and a tail, which later metamorphoses into an adult.
- Example: We observed the tadpoles as they began to grow legs and change shape.
- 3. A stage in the life cycle of amphibians that occurs after the egg stage and before the adult form.
- Example: As spring arrived, many tadpoles could be seen in the small marsh.
Etymology
From Middle English 'tadde' meaning frog, and 'pole' meaning head.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tadpole in a puddle:
A beginner or someone in a small position relative to others.
like a tadpole in the ocean:
Feeling small or insignificant in a large group.
Related Words
frog:
An adult amphibian that undergoes metamorphosis from a tadpole.
toad:
A type of amphibian related to frogs, typically with dry warty skin.
Slang Meanings of tadpole
Meaning: A young or inexperienced person.
Example Sentence: He's just a tadpole in the industry, still learning the ropes.
Meaning: Someone who is new to a situation.
Example Sentence: I'm just a tadpole at this new job, trying to figure everything out.