pupate
verb (used without object)
to become a pupa.
pupation
-
a word derived from
pupate.
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.
Insect larvae reared at higher temperatures will develop faster and reach pupation at a smaller size.
From Science Daily ● Sep. 11, 2026
During pupation, a baby insect wraps itself in a protective cocoon or shell while its soft, immature body becomes a more structurally complex adult one.
From Salon ● Mar. 23, 2013
Born on the Bexley butterfly farm, the boy grew up in a fluttering world that was timed to the persistent rhythm of mating, egg laying, caterpillar collecting, pupation and maturing butterflies.
From Time Magazine Archive
I learned by investigation that pupation takes place in a hole worked out by the caterpillar, so earth must touch these cases only as they lie upon it.
From Moths of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton-Porter
Once under the oak trees of a summer resort, Miss Katherine Howell, of Philadelphia, intercepted a Luna caterpillar in the preliminary race before pupation and brought it to me.
From Moths of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton-Porter
