Meaning & Definition of word "Pupa"
Pupa
/ˈpjuː.pə/
noun:
- 1. A developmental stage of some insects, typically occurring between the larva and the adult, during which the organism undergoes transformation.
- Example: The caterpillar transformed into a pupa, hanging motionless from a branch.
- 2. In some species, the pupa is encased in a protective shell, which is often referred to as a chrysalis or cocoon.
- Example: The silkworm spins a cocoon around its pupa to protect it during metamorphosis.
- 3. The term can also refer to any similar stage of development in other organisms, like certain amphibians.
- Example: During its pupa stage, the tadpole begins the slow process of developing legs.
- 4. Pupa can also describe the inactive form of an organism during its transition stage in species that undergo complete metamorphosis.
- Example: Entomologists study the pupa phase to understand the life cycle of various insects.
Etymology
●From Latin pupa meaning 'doll or girl', diminutive of puella meaning 'girl'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pupal stage:
The developmental phase during which the insect is in the pupa form.
pupal development:
The process and changes occurring while an insect is in the pupa stage.
Related Words
larva:
The immature form of an insect that hatches from eggs.
imago:
The final, adult stage of an insect's life cycle.
Slang Meanings of pupa
Meaning: A term for someone who is inexperienced or immature.
● Example Sentence: He's still a pupa when it comes to handling responsibilities.