larval
Americanadjective
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of, relating to, or in the form of a larva.
-
Also larvate (of a disease) masked; not clearly defined.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of larval
From the Latin word larvālis, dating back to 1650–60. See larva, -al 1
Explanation
The most basic, original form of something — especially when you're talking about insects — can be described as larval. A caterpillar is the larval form of a butterfly. In animals that take one form before metamorphosing into their adult shape, that first, immature stage is larval. The larval phase of a frog is a tadpole, and the larval form of a fly is a tiny, white, squirming maggot. You can also use this adjective in a figurative way, for the early stage of non-insects: "My novel is really still in its larval form. It's actually just a paragraph."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
By coordinating insecticide applications with the beetles' reproductive cycles, researchers hope to disrupt larval development before the insects can inflict extensive damage on blueberry roots.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 6, 2026
She thanked their partners and volunteers for their continued support, despite having two years without a larval sighting.
From BBC ● Oct. 31, 2026
They collect heat and organic matter, which mosquitoes feed on during their larval stage, and are almost impossible to empty once water pools inside.
From Slate ● Aug. 4, 2026
Robison suspects that this majestic creature might have stayed there after feeding on small crustaceans and larval fish.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 15, 2026
I even planted some milkweed, violets, and wispy salt grass for the caterpillars—you know, when butterflies are in the larval stage.
From "Red Kayak" by Priscilla Cummings
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