Definition

A type of larval stage of a parasitic worm that is free-swimming and typically develops in a snail before moving to another host.

Example

The cercaria swims through the water to find its next host.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a cercaria?

No, what is that?

It's actually a larval stage of a parasitic worm that comes from snails.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know snails could be connected to parasites.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cercaria → The word 'cercaria' comes from the Greek 'kērkos' ("κέρκος", meaning tail) and the suffix '-aria' (meaning pertaining to). It refers to a larval stage of certain parasitic flatworms that have a tail-like structure.

Memory Tip

Imagine a tiny creature with a 'tail' ('kērkos') that is 'pertaining to' a specific stage in its life cycle — that's what cercaria means.

Visually Confused Words