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Larval - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Larval refers to the immature, early stage of an animal’s life cycle, especially insects or amphibians, before it undergoes metamorphosis into its adult form. Example: A caterpillar is the larval stage of a butterfly.

larval

/ˈlɑrvəl/ /ˈlɑːvəl/

Definition:

Relating to the immature, wingless form of insects and other invertebrates before metamorphosis.

Synonyms:

immature, undeveloped, juvenile

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

adult, mature

Common Collocations:

larval stage, larval development, larval form

Derivatives:

larvae, larvally

Usage Tips:

Use "larval" to describe early life stages of insects or other organisms before they undergo transformation.

Common Phrases:

larval stage of development, in its larval form

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "larva," meaning "ghost" or "mask," later used for immature insect forms resembling ghosts.

Examples:

  • 1. The caterpillar is in its larval stage before becoming a butterfly.
  • 2. Mosquitoes spend their larval phase in water before emerging as adults.
  • 3. Scientists study larval fish to understand their growth patterns.
  • 4. The tadpole is the larval form of a frog.

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