Definition

A type of caterpillar that belongs to certain moths, known for feeding on young plants and causing damage to them.

Example

The gardener found several cutworms in the soil, which were eating the young seedlings.

Conversation

Have you heard about the cutworm problem in the garden this year?

Yeah, I read that they can really damage young plants.

I didn't expect them to be such a nuisance so early in the season.

I know, right? We should probably check our plants more often.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cutworm → The word is formed from "cut" (from Old English "cuttan", meaning to sever or divide) and "worm" (from Old English "wyrm", meaning serpent or worm). A cutworm is a type of caterpillar that cuts through plants, hence the name.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'cutting' something and a 'worm' that is often found in the soil — a cutworm is a worm that cuts through plants.

Visually Confused Words