hellgrammite

[ hel-gruh-mahyt ]

noun

1. the aquatic larva of a dobsonfly, used as bait in fishing.

hellgrammite

/ ˈhɛlɡrəˌmaɪt /

noun

1. the larva of the dobsonfly, about 10 cm long with biting mouthparts: used as bait for bass Also calleddobson

Word History and Origins

Origin of hellgrammite¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of hellgrammite¹

C19: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

This group as restricted by modern authors is a small one, including the largest species, as in the Hellgrammite, the Lace-wing Flies, the Ant-lions, and the Mantispas representing the families, Sialidæ and Hemerobiidæ, with their subfamilies.

From Project Gutenberg

They bring us our chow and say it is angleworm and hellgrammite porridge as that is what the Subterro denizens live on mostly.

From Project Gutenberg

The hellgrammite, a black, ugly slug to be found under stones in summer streams, is the most tempting bait you can offer a black bass.

From Project Gutenberg

After a time the hellgrammite comes to the surface and takes to the air as a beetle, but in that state he interests the naturalist rather than the fisherman.

From Project Gutenberg