Definition

1. Noun:
   • A winged insect resembling a dragonfly: An adult antlion is a flying insect that looks similar to a dragonfly.
   • The larva of any of several insects: The term "antlion" also refers specifically to the larval stage of these insects, which are known for their predatory habits.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Adult Insect):

  • We saw an antlion flitting near the porch light.
  • The antlion is less agile in flight than a true dragonfly.

• Noun (Larva):

  • The antlion dug a pit in the fine sand to trap its prey.
  • Children sometimes call the antlion larva a "doodlebug."

Advanced Usage

• "Antlion pit": Refers to the conical trap dug by the larva.
  • The antlion pit is a marvel of natural engineering.

Variants and Related Words

• Ant lion: An alternative spelling of the word.
• Doodlebug: A common name for the antlion larva.
• Myrmeleontidae: The scientific family name for antlions.

Synonyms

• Doodlebug (specifically for the larva).
• Lacewing (Note: Antlions belong to the same broader order, Neuroptera, as lacewings, but they are different insects).

Related Phrases

• Antlion trap: Another term for the pit constructed by the larva.
  • The antlion trap is designed to funnel insects to the bottom.

Noun

1. winged insect resembling a dragonfly; the larvae (doodlebugs) dig conical pits where they wait to catch e.g. ants
2. the larva of any of several insects