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Glite Dictionary
lappet caterpillar

lappet caterpillar

9.6
A young insect that becomes a moth and has flaps of skin along its sides
  • noun
  • /ˈlæpɪt ˈkætərˌpɪlər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : oruga lappet
  • The lappet caterpillar is easily recognized by the tufts on its body, which mimic the appearance of lappets.

Examples

  • The lappet caterpillar is easily recognized by the flaps of skin along its sides.

  • Gardeners should be aware of the damage lappet caterpillars can cause to fruit trees.

  • As it grows, the lappet caterpillar sheds its skin several times before becoming a moth.

  • The lappet caterpillar is often found on oak trees.

  • Many lappet caterpillars have striking colors.

  • In spring, the lappet caterpillar emerges and begins feeding on leaves, growing rapidly.

  • Gardeners should check for lappet caterpillars in their gardens, as they can damage young plants.

Synonyms

caterpillar
vslappet caterpillar
43 1.0

A soft young insect like a worm that becomes a butterfly or moth and eats leaves

is a specific larval form with tufts or flap-like protuberances

Surface Forms

lappet caterpillar singular
lappet caterpillars plural

Morphology

lappet + caterpillar

This is a straightforward noun–noun compound where the modifier 'lappet' specifies the type of 'caterpillar' (i.e., the caterpillar of a lappet moth or a caterpillar with lappet-like tufts). The meaning is compositionally derived from the constituents and follows common biological naming patterns, so a learner who knows both words can infer the MWE’s meaning.

Etymology

Lappet caterpillar gets its name from the small skin 'flaps' along its sides. These lappet 'flaps' look like the decorative 'lappets' on clothes, so the name means the caterpillar with those flap-like parts.