Definition

A small, soft-bodied larva that comes from a type of moth, often found in beehives and known for eating beeswax.

Example

The waxworm is often used as bait for fishing due to its high protein content.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a waxworm before?

No, I haven't! What are they like?

They're actually the larvae of a wax moth, and they can be pretty interesting.

That sounds cool! I’d love to learn more about them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Waxworm → The word is formed from "wax" (from Old English *weax*, meaning a substance produced by bees) and "worm" (from Old English *wyrm*, meaning a serpent or a small creature). A waxworm is a larval form of a moth that feeds on beeswax, hence the name combining the two elements.

Memory Tip

Think of a small creature ('worm') that feeds on a substance produced by bees ('wax') — that's why a waxworm is associated with beeswax.

Visually Confused Words