Definition

A type of caterpillar that comes from certain moths and is known to damage fruit and shade trees.

Example

The cankerworm caused significant damage to the apple orchard this spring.

Conversation

Have you heard about the cankerworm problems in the park lately?

Yeah, I saw a post about it online; they can really damage the trees.

I didn't realize they were such a big issue for the environment.

Definitely! We should spread the word to help protect the local plants.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cankerworm is formed from "canker" (from Old English "cancor", meaning a sore or ulcer) and "worm" (from Old English "wyrm", meaning serpent or worm). The term refers to a type of caterpillar that can cause damage to plants, resembling a sore or infestation.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sore' ('canker') that is like a 'worm' — this helps you remember that a cankerworm is a caterpillar that can harm plants.

Visually Confused Words