pupate

[ pyoo-peyt ]

verb (used without object)

, pu·pat·ed, pu·pat·ing.

1. to become a pupa.

pupate

/ pjuːˈpeɪt /

verb

1. intr (of an insect larva) to develop into a pupa

Derived Forms

• puˈpation, noun

Other Words From

• pu·pation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pupate¹

First recorded in 1875–80; pup(a) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

In time, the larva will pupate inside it, erupting through its exoskeleton when mature, ready to repeat this grisly process for another generation.

From MIT Technology Review

Uninfected caterpillars would wander up and down the mesh, but would return to the bottom before pupating.

From Science News

A long sigh of relief the gardener or farmer draws when the caterpillars lie quiet to pupate.

From Project Gutenberg

That caterpillar did not, however, pupate, or survive the winter.

From Project Gutenberg

When ready to pupate they go a short distance into the ground.

From Project Gutenberg

Some few leave their feeding place and pupate after traversing a short distance (Eristalis).

From Project Gutenberg

It enters the soil, burrows to a depth of one-half to two inches, and forms an earthern cell in which to pupate.

From Project Gutenberg