antlion: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Technical (zoology/entomology), informal (as 'doodlebug').
Quick answer
What does “antlion” mean?
An insect whose larva digs a conical pit in sand to trap ants and other prey.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An insect whose larva digs a conical pit in sand to trap ants and other prey.
The term can also refer specifically to the larva itself, which is also known as a 'doodlebug'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word itself is identical in spelling and reference. The informal term 'doodlebug' is more common in American English for the larva.
Connotations
Primarily a biological/zoological term. In American English, 'doodlebug' can have a folksy, regional charm.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general English. Most common in entomological contexts or regional dialects where 'doodlebug' is used.
Grammar
How to Use “antlion” in a Sentence
The [NOUN] observed the antlion.An antlion [VERB] a pit.Prey falls into the antlion's pit.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in zoology and entomology papers to refer to insects of the family Myrmeleontidae.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used by naturalists, gardeners, or in regions where 'doodlebug' is a known term.
Technical
Standard term for the insect in its larval and adult stages.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “antlion”
- Misspelling as 'ant lion' or 'ant-lion' (though hyphenated form is sometimes accepted).
- Confusing the adult insect (which can fly) with the predatory larva.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Neither. It is an insect, named for its behavior of hunting ants like a 'lion'.
They are the same insect. 'Doodlebug' is a common name, especially in American English, for the antlion larva.
No. They are completely harmless to humans and are too small to bite or sting effectively.
In dry, sandy or loose soil, often under sheltered overhangs like buildings or trees in warm climates.
An insect whose larva digs a conical pit in sand to trap ants and other prey.
Antlion is usually technical (zoology/entomology), informal (as 'doodlebug'). in register.
Antlion: in British English it is pronounced /ˈænt.laɪ.ən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈæntˌlaɪ.ən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an ANT being hunted by a 'lion' that lives in a tiny sand pit.
Conceptual Metaphor
TRAP AS A PIT; PATIENCE AS A HUNTING STRATEGY (the antlion waits motionless at the bottom of its pit).
Practice
Quiz
What is an 'antlion' primarily known for?