Antlion

/ˈæntˌlaɪən/ noun

Definition

The larva of an insect that digs pit traps in sand to catch and eat ants and other small insects.

Etymology

From ant + lion, combining these two animals because the larva preys on ants like a lion hunts prey. The compound emerged naturally as people observed this insect's fierce predatory behavior.

Kelly Says

An antlion larva waits motionless for up to a year in its sand pit trap—it's one of nature's greatest hunters by doing absolutely nothing, a reminder that patience beats energy in the hunting game.

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