inchworm

English

The characteristic "looping" movement of an inchworm, the caterpillar of the geometer moth (Geometridae sp.), which makes it look as if it is measuring its journey

Etymology

From inch +‎ worm. So called because their gradual movement seems to be measuring the ground; compare measuring worm.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈɪnt͡ʃ.wɜːm/
• (US) IPA^(key): /ˈɪnt͡ʃ.wɚm/

Noun

inchworm (plural inchworms)

1. The larva of a moth of the family Geometridae.

Verb

inchworm (third-person singular simple present inchworms, present participle inchworming, simple past and past participle inchwormed)

1. To move in a looping fashion, like an inchworm.
2. To crawl or creep slowly.

Synonyms

• (larva): geometrid, looper, measuring worm, spanworm

Translations

measuring worm — see measuring worm