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pupa

/ˈpjuːpə/ noun · British & US
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What does pupa mean?

noun

The stage of development between the larva and the adult in the life cycle of certain insects, such as butterflies and moths, during which the insect undergoes a dramatic transformation, called metamorphosis, in which its body is reorganized into the adult form.

Example

"The caterpillar spun a cocoon and emerged as a beautiful butterfly, its body transformed from a pupa."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

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Synonyms for pupa

Rhymes with pupa