- Any young insect from the time that it hatches from the egg
until it becomes a pupa, or chrysalis. During this time it usually
molts several times, and may change its form or color each time. The
larvae of many insects are much like the adults in form and habits, but
have no trace of wings, the rudimentary wings appearing only in the
pupa stage. In other groups of insects the larvae are totally unlike
the parents in structure and habits, and are called caterpillars,
grubs, maggots, etc. - The early, immature form of any animal when more or less of
a metamorphosis takes place, before the assumption of the mature shape.
Definition
[ n.]