Simple Definition of larva

from our Learner's Dictionary

larva

noun

ˈlɑɚvə How to pronounce larva (audio)
plural larvae ˈlɑɚˌviː How to pronounce larva (audio)
: a very young form of an insect that looks like a worm
The larva of a butterfly is called a caterpillar.

Cite this Entry

“Larva.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/larva. Accessed 6 May. 2026.

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