Monday, 19 October 2026

The French origins of the word 'caterpillar'

'Caterpillar' is a word borrowed from French 'catepelose'. The word entered the English language some time around the 15th century.


caterpillar [noun] [15th century]
  • the elongated wormlike larva of a butterfly or moth
  • any of various similar larvae

Meaning: larva of a butterfly or moth.

Etymology: From Anglo French catepelose hairy cat.

Topics: Animals:Insects.

Origin: From French to English.

note: Meaning: Larva of a butterfly or moth. Etymology: From Anglo French catepelose hairy cat. Path: French > English.
See 'caterpillar' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from French.
See more loan words from 1400s.


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