wolf spider

noun

1. any of numerous ground spiders of the family Lycosidae, including the southern European tarantula, Lycosa taretula, that hunt their prey instead of using a web.

wolf spider

noun

1. any spider of the family Lycosidae, which chase their prey to catch it Also calledhunting spider

Word History and Origins

Origin of wolf spider¹

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

With his fangs, this wolf-spider kills and crushes his victim; then he sucks the body dry and throws away the carcass.

From Project Gutenberg

It is the wolf-spider that often appears at night within the circle of lamplight searching for nocturnal insects.

From Project Gutenberg

There is the wolf-spider which, if a man passes near its lair, will leap out and pursue him, and bite him if it can.

From Project Gutenberg

The tarantula is of the wolf-spider family, whose habit is to chase their prey, not lie in ambush.

From Project Gutenberg