webworm

[ web-wurm ]

noun

1. the larva of any of several moths, as Hyphantria cunea fall webworm or Loxostege similalis garden webworm, which spins a web over the foliage on which it feeds.

Word History and Origins

Origin of webworm¹

An Americanism dating back to 1790–1800; web + worm

Example Sentences

The researchers found that the insect with the second-highest number of plant hosts is the fall webworm, a moth that is known to feed on 636 different plant species.

From Science Daily

Likewise, American species are wreaking havoc abroad, including the fall webworm, which devastates thousands of acres of forest in China each year.

From National Geographic

I saw some tent caterpillars, webworms and even small green canker worms earlier and thought a strong assault was on the way, but it hasn’t materialized.

From Seattle Times

I looked up at the filmy bags of webworms high above me in the lush canopy of oaks bending over the river.

From Literature

What they are: Fall webworms are a type of moth known particularly for its larval stage, when it creates silky webs that cover entire branches of trees.

From Washington Times