measuringworm
nounUK /ˈmɛʒərɪŋwɜːm/
US /ˈmɛʒərɪŋwɜːrm/
A measuringworm is a small caterpillar that moves by looping its body up and down.
The measuringworm crawled slowly across the leaf, looping its body as it went.
SYNONYMS
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The larva of a geometer moth, known for its looping walk.
The measuringworm is the larva of a geometer moth.
3. A term used in some regions for any small looping caterpillar.
In the garden, we found a measuringworm on the rose bush.
4. A creature often used to teach children about how caterpillars move.
The teacher showed the class a measuringworm to explain its looping motion.