Tadpole

/ˈtædˌpoʊl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A young amphibian, specifically the larval stage of a frog or toad, characterized by a long tail and lack of limbs.

The pond was filled with tadpoles swimming eagerly in the warm water.

The larval form of a frog or toad, typically having gills and a tail, which later metamorphoses into an adult.

We observed the tadpoles as they began to grow legs and change shape.

A stage in the life cycle of amphibians that occurs after the egg stage and before the adult form.

As spring arrived, many tadpoles could be seen in the small marsh.

From Middle English 'tadde' meaning frog, and 'pole' meaning head.

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.

frog

An adult amphibian that undergoes metamorphosis from a tadpole.

toad

A type of amphibian related to frogs, typically with dry warty skin.

A young or inexperienced person.

He's just a tadpole in the industry, still learning the ropes.

Someone who is new to a situation.

I'm just a tadpole at this new job, trying to figure everything out.