Definition

A young frog or toad that lives in water and has a long tail and gills. It eventually grows legs and lungs as it matures into an adult frog or toad.

Example

The pond was full of tadpoles swimming around in the warm water.

Conversation

Did you know that a tadpole starts off with gills and a long tail?

Really? I always thought they just looked like tiny frogs.

Yeah, it's fascinating how they change as they grow up into frogs.

Nature is amazing! I love learning about all those transformations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'tadpole' originates from Middle English 'tadde' (meaning toad) and 'pol' (meaning head). A tadpole is literally a 'toad head', referring to the early life stage of a frog or toad.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'toad' ('tadde') and its 'head' ('pol') — this helps you remember that a tadpole is the early stage of a toad.

Visually Confused Words