© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

armyworm

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈɑːrmiˌwɜːrm/

KK: /ˈɑrmiˌwɜrm/

noun
Definition

A type of caterpillar that belongs to certain moth species and is known for damaging crops and plants by traveling in large groups.


Example

The farmer was worried about the armyworm infestation in his fields.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the armyworm problem in the fields?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's really concerning how fast they can destroy crops.
Sloth A
I read that farmers are struggling to control the armyworm outbreaks this season.
Sloth B
I hope they find a good solution soon; it's affecting everyone's food supply.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
caterpillar
larva
moth
Antonyms
benefactor
protector
guardian
Root Explanation

The word 'armyworm' is formed from 'army' (from Old French *armé*, meaning armed or equipped) and 'worm' (from Old English *wyrm*, meaning serpent or worm). The term describes a type of caterpillar that moves in large groups, resembling an army as they march across fields.

Memory Tip

Imagine a group of 'armed' ('army') creatures that look like 'worms' — this helps you remember that an armyworm is a caterpillar that moves in large numbers.

Visually Confused Words
earworm
Is this page helpful?