online vocabulary.com

Pupate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To pupate means to undergo the process by which a larva transforms into a pupa, an intermediate stage before becoming an adult insect. This is a key phase in metamorphosis.

pupate

/ˈpjuˌpeɪt/ /ˈpjuːpeɪt/

Definition:

To transform into a pupa during the insect life cycle.

Synonyms:

metamorphose, develop, mature

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

regress, degenerate

Common Collocations:

insect larvae, cocoon stage, life cycle

Derivatives:

pupation, pupated, pupating

Usage Tips:

Use "pupate" to describe the process of an insect becoming a pupa before adulthood.

Common Phrases:

"begin to pupate, " "ready to pupate, " "complete pupation"

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "pupa" (doll) due to the pupa's doll-like appearance.

Examples:

  • 1. The caterpillar will soon pupate inside its cocoon.
  • 2. After feeding for weeks, the larvae begin to pupate underground.
  • 3. Butterflies typically pupate for about two weeks before emerging as adults.
  • 4. The scientist observed how the insects pupate under controlled conditions.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS