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הזחל — meaning in English: The larva

hazakhal · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for the caterpillar
בטעות
beta'ut
רצונו
retsono
תביא
tavi
בודדות
bodedot
הזחל
hazakhal
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neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word הזחל (hazakhal) in educational contexts, particularly in biology classes when discussing insect life cycles. It may also come up in nature-related conversations or when describing gardening experiences, especially when talking about pest management.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is גולם (golem), meaning 'pupa', which refers to the stage after the larva. While both terms describe stages in an insect's life cycle, הזחל (hazakhal) specifically emphasizes the larval phase, which is often associated with feeding and growth, while גולם (golem) denotes a period of transformation.
Culture
The word הזחל (hazakhal) derives from the root ז-ח-ל, which relates to movement and transition, reflecting the larva's role as a transformative stage in the lifecycle of insects. In Israeli culture, larvae are often a topic of interest among amateur entomologists, and some even raise them as a hobby, leading to a deeper appreciation for the ecosystem.
FAQ
Q.What does the word 'הזחל' mean in English?
'הזחל' translates to 'the larva' in English, referring to the juvenile form of insects that undergo metamorphosis.
Q.How do you use 'הזחל' in a sentence?
You can use 'הזחל' in a sentence like, 'הזחל של הפרפר אוכל עלים' which means 'The caterpillar of the butterfly is eating leaves.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'הזחל'?
A common mistake is confusing 'הזחל' with 'גולם' (golem). Remember, 'הזחל' refers specifically to the larval stage, while 'גולם' refers to the pupal stage.
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