inchworm

From Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Jump to navigation Jump to search

English

[edit]
The characteristic "looping" movement of an inchworm, the caterpillar of the geometer moth (Geometridae sp.), which makes it look as if it is measuring its journey

Etymology

[edit]

From inch +‎ worm. So called because their gradual movement seems to be measuring the ground; compare measuring worm.

Pronunciation

[edit]

Noun

[edit]

inchworm (plural inchworms)

  1. The larva of a moth of the family Geometridae.

Verb

[edit]

inchworm (third-person singular simple present inchworms, present participle inchworming, simple past and past participle inchwormed)

  1. To move in a looping fashion, like an inchworm.
  2. To crawl or creep slowly.

Synonyms

[edit]

Translations

[edit]