caddisworm

noun

cad·​dis·​worm ˈka-dəs-ˌwərm How to pronounce caddisworm (audio)
: the larva of a caddis fly that lives in and carries around a silken case covered with bits of debris

Illustration of caddisworm

Illustration of caddisworm

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of obsolete codworm; from the case or tube in which it lives

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of caddisworm was in 1622

Dictionary Entries Near caddisworm

Cite this Entry

“Caddisworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/caddisworm. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!