Definition

Noun: 1. A funnel-shaped spider web: A silken web constructed by certain spiders, characterized by a flat or slightly curved sheet that narrows into a tubular retreat (the funnel). The spider typically waits within this tubular retreat for prey to land on the sheet. 2. (Implicitly) The web of a funnel-web spider: While the term primarily describes the web's structure, it is most commonly associated with spiders of the family Agelenidae (funnel weavers) and the highly venomous spiders of the family Atracidae (Australian funnel-web spiders).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We found an intricate funnel web spun in the corner of the garden shed.
  • The spider sat at the narrow end of its funnel web, sensing vibrations.
  • Identifying a funnel web can help determine the type of spider inhabiting it.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in a compound noun to specify the spider that builds such a web (e.g., funnel-web spider). In this advanced usage, "funnel-web" functions as a hyphenated adjective modifying "spider."
  • The funnel-web spider is a master architect.
• In ecological or behavioral studies, the funnel web is discussed as a specific trap design within arachnology.
  • The study compared the prey capture efficiency of orb webs versus funnel webs.

Variants and Related Words

• Funnel-web spider (n.): A spider that constructs a funnel web. This commonly refers to two distinct groups: the generally harmless funnel weavers (Agelenidae) found worldwide, and the venomous Australian funnel-web spiders (Atracidae).
• Funnel-weaver (n.): Another term for spiders of the family Agelenidae.
• Sheet web (n.): A broader category of flat, horizontal webs, of which a funnel web is a specific type featuring a retreat.

Synonyms

• Agelenid web: A more technical term for the web of spiders in the family Agelenidae.
• Tube web: A less common but descriptive synonym emphasizing the retreat structure.

Related Phrases

• To spin/build a funnel web: The action performed by the spider.
  • The spider spun a funnel web between the grass blades overnight.

Noun

1. a funnel-shaped spider web; the funnel-web spider perches in the center of the web