pupate

verb

pu·​pate ˈpyü-ˌpāt How to pronounce pupate (audio)
pupated; pupating

intransitive verb

: to become a pupa : pass through a pupal stage
pupation
pyü-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce pupate (audio)
noun

Examples of pupate in a Sentence

Unlike most butterflies, this species pupates underground.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Timing is also important as application should come after eggs have hatched but before larvae are large enough to pupate. — Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 8 Mar. 2025 Next, the larvae burrow down into the carpet, pupating in a protective cocoon that encompasses carpet fibers and other floor debris from the environment. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 25 Sep. 2024 After a period of growth and development, the larva pupates, forming a protective cocoon around itself. — The Arizona Republic, 12 Mar. 2024 Caterpillars that pupate into cocoons in the fall will overwinter until warmer spring temperatures arrive. — Ernie Cowan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Nov. 2023 See All Example Sentences for pupate

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pupate was in 1862

Rhymes for pupate

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Browse Nearby Words

pupate
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Cite this Entry

“Pupate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pupate. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

pupate

verb
pu·​pate ˈpyü-ˌpāt How to pronounce pupate (audio)
pupated; pupating
: to become a pupa : pass through the stage of the pupa
pupation
pyü-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce pupate (audio)
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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