Larva

/ˈlɑːrvə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The immature, often wormlike form of an insect that hatches from the egg and undergoes metamorphosis into an adult.

The caterpillar is the larva of the butterfly, which will eventually transform into its beautiful winged form.

A similar immature form of other animals, especially in the context of marine life.

The larva of the sea urchin is planktonic and drift through the ocean before settling on the seafloor.

In the context of certain amphibians, the larval stage often aquatic and undergoing significant transformation.

Tadpoles are the larval form of frogs, living in water and breathing through gills.

Latin 'larva', meaning 'ghost' or 'mask'.

larva of a fly

Refers specifically to the maggot stage.

larval stage

The early developmental phase of an organism.

metamorphosis

The process of transformation from an immature form to an adult form.

pupa

The stage in an insect's life cycle between the larva and the adult.

A term used to describe someone considered to be immature or not contributing.

He's just a larva in the workplace, not pulling his weight.

Referring to someone who is overly dependent or lacks independence.

Stop being such a larva and learn to do things on your own.