Etymology
From Latin larva (“ghost-like, masked”).
Noun
larva (plural larvas or larvae or larvæ)
- An early stage of growth for some insects, in which they are wingless and resemble a caterpillar or grub after hatching from their egg
- An animal in the aforementioned stage.
- A form of a recently born or hatched animal that is quite different from its adult stage.
Usage notes
Although the plural is somewhat common, it is regarded by some as incorrect.
Derived terms
- larval
- mosquito larva
Credits
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