hellgrammite

[hel-gruh-mahyt]

noun

1. the aquatic larva of a dobsonfly, used as bait in fishing.

hellgrammite

/ ˈhɛlɡrəˌmaɪt /

noun

1. Also called: dobson. the larva of the dobsonfly, about 10 cm long with biting mouthparts: used as bait for bass

Word History and Origins

Origin of hellgrammite¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of hellgrammite¹

C19: of unknown origin