woolly worm

noun

, Midland U.S.

1. woolly bear.

Word History and Origins

Origin of woolly worm¹

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

Of these, perhaps the best known is the brown “woolly worm” or “hedgehog caterpillar,” as it is familiarly called.

From Project Gutenberg

"You look just like a woolly worm, Helen," said Zaidee, gleefully.

From Project Gutenberg