Meaning & Definition of Tadpole in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: A larval stage of an amphibian, especially of a frog or toad, that is aquatic and characterized by a tail and gills.

  Example Sentence: The pond was filled with tadpoles swimming around in the water.

• Definition: A young frog or toad.

  Example Sentence: As summer approached, the tadpoles began to develop legs and lose their tails.

Etymology

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

Synonyms

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.

Translations

• Spanish: renacuajo

• French: têtard

• German: Kaulquappe

• Russian: потянуля

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.