Definition

A young stage of an insect, especially a beetle, that is often found in soil or decaying matter and is usually soft and white or yellowish in color.

Example

The gardener found several grubworms in the soil while preparing the garden bed.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a grubworm in the garden?

Yeah, I found one last summer while digging up some weeds.

Did you know they can actually help with soil health?

I heard that! They break down organic matter, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Grubworm is formed from "grub" (from Old English *grubban*, meaning to dig or burrow) and "worm" (from Old English *wyrm*, meaning serpent or worm). The term refers to a larval stage of an insect that is often found burrowing in the ground, resembling a worm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'grubbing' in the ground, which connects to the idea of a 'worm' that digs or burrows — that's why a grubworm is a type of burrowing insect.

Visually Confused Words