Definition

To emerge from an egg or pupa, especially in the context of insects.

Example

The butterfly will eclose from its chrysalis in a few days.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see the caterpillar I brought home?

Yeah! I can't wait to see it eclose into a butterfly.

I hope it happens soon; it's so exciting to watch!

For sure! I’ll keep checking on it every day.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Eclose comes from the Greek word 'eklosis' (meaning to break out or emerge), which is derived from 'ek-' (meaning out) and 'klein' (meaning to close). The word 'eclose' refers to the process of an insect emerging from its pupal case or egg, thus breaking out into the open.

Memory Tip

Think of an insect 'breaking out' ('ek-' means out and 'klein' relates to closing) from its egg or pupa — that's what eclose means.

Visually Confused Words