Definition

Noun 1. A species of wolf spider: Lycosa tarentula is the scientific name for a specific, large species of wolf spider native to regions of southern Europe. 2. Historical cause of tarantism: This spider was historically, though erroneously, believed to be the cause of tarantism, a condition characterized by hysterical, uncontrollable bodily movements.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Lycosa tarentula is a formidable hunter, relying on speed and strength rather than a web to catch its prey.
  • For centuries, the bite of the Lycosa tarentula was thought to induce a frantic, dancing mania.

Advanced Usage

• In historical/medical context: The name is intrinsically linked to the history of tarantism. The frenzied dancing believed to cure the spider's bite evolved into the traditional Italian folk dance, the tarantella.
  • The legend of the Lycosa tarentula is deeply woven into the cultural history of the Mediterranean.

Variants and Related Words

• Tarantula (n): In common usage, "tarantula" now most often refers to large, hairy spiders of the family Theraphosidae. Historically, the term originated from the name for the .
• Wolf spider (n): The common name for spiders of the family Lycosidae, to which belongs. They are ground-dwelling hunters.

Synonyms

• Tarantula (historical sense): The original spider from which the general term "tarantula" was derived.
• European wolf spider: A descriptive common name.

Noun

1. large southern European spider once thought to be the cause of tarantism (uncontrollable bodily movement)