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curculio

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kɜːrˈkjuːli.oʊ/

KK: /kɜrˈkjuːli.oʊ/

noun
Definition

A type of beetle known for its long snout, often damaging fruit and plants.


Example

The farmer noticed that the curculio was damaging the apples in his orchard.


Conversation
Sloth A
I found a strange bug in my garden today.
Sloth B
Was it a curculio? Those can really mess up your plants.
Sloth A
Yeah, it had a long snout, just like they describe.
Sloth B
You should watch out for them; they can injure your fruit!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
weevil
beetle
pest
Antonyms
benefactor
helper
guardian
Root Explanation

Curculio is derived from Latin 'curculio' (meaning weevil), which refers to a type of beetle. The word specifically denotes a small insect known for damaging plants, particularly grains and fruits.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word 'curculio' which directly refers to a type of beetle, helping you remember that 'curculio' is associated with this specific insect.

Visually Confused Words
cuculi
surculi
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