woolly-bear

A woolly-bear caterpillar crawls along a green leaf.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of caterpillar: "woolly-bear" refers to the larva of certain moths, particularly of the family Arctiidae, which is covered in dense, bristly hairs resembling wool. It is also commonly known as a "woolly bear caterpillar."

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The children found a woolly-bear crawling across the path in the garden. (A hairy caterpillar moving on the ground.)
  • In folklore, the woolly-bear's stripes are said to predict the severity of the coming winter. (A traditional belief about the caterpillar's appearance.)

Advanced Usage

• "woolly-bear" as a common name: This term is often used in informal or educational contexts, especially in North America, to describe the fuzzy caterpillar of the Isabella tiger moth ().
  • During autumn hikes, it is common to see woolly-bears crossing roads as they search for winter shelter. (The caterpillar's seasonal behaviour.)

Variants and Related Words

• Woolly bear caterpillar (n): a more explicit synonym for the same insect.
  • The woolly bear caterpillar is famous for its bristly coat. (The hairy larva is well-known.)
• Woolly bear moth (n): the adult stage of the insect, though less commonly used.
  • The woolly bear moth emerges in late spring. (The adult moth form.)

Synonyms

• Hairy caterpillar: a general term for any caterpillar with dense hairs, often used interchangeably with "woolly-bear."
• Bristly larva: a more technical description of the insect's physical characteristics.

Related Idioms

• "As fuzzy as a woolly-bear": a simile used to describe something very soft or hairy.
  • Her sweater was as fuzzy as a woolly-bear. (The sweater was extremely soft and hairy.)

Notes

• Regional variation: In some regions, "woolly-bear" may also refer to the adult moth or other similar-looking caterpillars, but its primary meaning is the larval stage.