Definition

A type of caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of plants.

Example

The leafworm damaged the garden by eating all the leaves.

Conversation

Did you see that leafworm on the plant yesterday?

Yeah, it was huge! I hope it doesn't eat all the leaves.

I know, right? Those leafworms can really destroy a garden.

We should do something about it before it gets worse!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Leafworm → The word is formed from "leaf" (from Old English "leáf", meaning the foliage of a plant) and "worm" (from Old English "wyrm", meaning a serpent or a crawling creature). A leafworm refers to a type of caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of plants.

Memory Tip

Think of 'leaf' as the part of the plant that the 'worm' (or caterpillar) eats — that's why a leafworm is a creature that feeds on leaves.

Visually Confused Words