Definition

A type of caterpillar that creates webs and often causes damage to plants.

Example

The garden was infested with webworms, which spun webs all over the leaves.

Conversation

Have you seen those webworms in my garden lately?

Yeah, I noticed them! They make such a mess with those webs.

I’m worried they might damage my plants if I don’t do something soon.

You should definitely take action; they can be pretty destructive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'webworm' is formed from 'web' (from Old English 'webb', meaning a woven fabric or network) and 'worm' (from Old English 'wyrm', meaning serpent or dragon). The term 'webworm' refers to a type of caterpillar that creates webs in which it lives and feeds, resembling a woven structure.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'woven fabric' ('web') and a 'serpent' or 'dragon' ('worm') — together, they describe a creature that lives in a web-like structure.

Visually Confused Words