spiderweb: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to informal
Quick answer
What does “spiderweb” mean?
The intricate, silken structure spun by a spider to catch prey.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The intricate, silken structure spun by a spider to catch prey.
Any complex, interconnected network or system resembling a spider's web; also used as a verb meaning to cover or entangle with such a web.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'spider's web' is slightly more common than the compound 'spiderweb'. In American English, the compound 'spiderweb' is dominant. 'Cobweb' is used similarly in both varieties for old, abandoned webs.
Connotations
Similar connotations in both varieties: intricacy, fragility, entrapment, and sometimes neglect (when old/dusty).
Frequency
The term is moderately frequent in both varieties, with higher metaphorical use in American English.
Grammar
How to Use “spiderweb” in a Sentence
[spider] spun a spiderweb [in the corner][something] was covered in spiderwebsa spiderweb of [abstract noun, e.g., deceit, alliances]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “spiderweb” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The old window had begun to spiderweb with cracks.
- Frost spiderwebbed across the windscreen overnight.
American English
- The windshield spiderwebbed after the rock hit it.
- Cracks spiderwebbed out from the bullet hole.
adverb
British English
- The cracks spread spiderweb-thin across the surface. (compound adjective/adverb)
- The veins showed spiderweb-fine under her skin.
American English
- The glass shattered spiderweb-style. (informal)
- The lines branched out spiderweb-like.
adjective
British English
- She wore tights with a spiderweb pattern.
- The vase had a delicate, spiderweb crackle glaze.
American English
- He has a spiderweb tattoo on his elbow.
- The crystal featured a spiderweb fracture inside.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Metaphor for complex, interconnected systems or supply chains (e.g., 'the spiderweb of global logistics').
Academic
Used in biology/zoology texts; metaphor in social sciences for network analysis.
Everyday
Describing actual webs seen in homes/gardens; metaphor for complicated situations.
Technical
Specific term in arachnology; design/architecture for web-like structures.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spiderweb”
- Using 'spiderweb' as a verb too freely (it's informal).
- Confusing 'spiderweb' (structure) with 'cobweb' (specifically old/dusty).
- Misspelling as two words 'spider web' (acceptable but less common as compound).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both 'spiderweb' (closed compound) and 'spider web' (open compound) are accepted, but the one-word form is increasingly common, especially in American English.
A 'spiderweb' is any web made by a spider. A 'cobweb' specifically refers to an old, dusty spiderweb, often abandoned by the spider.
Yes, informally, meaning to cover with a web-like pattern, especially of cracks (e.g., 'The glass spiderwebbed'). It's more common in descriptive writing than formal prose.
It is usually neutral or negative, implying excessive complexity, entanglement, or deceit (e.g., a spiderweb of bureaucracy/lies). It is rarely positive, though it can admire intricate design.
The intricate, silken structure spun by a spider to catch prey.
Spiderweb is usually neutral to informal in register.
Spiderweb: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspaɪdəwɛb/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspaɪdɚˌwɛb/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “a spiderweb of deceit”
- “weave a spiderweb of lies”
- “get caught in one's own spiderweb”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of SPIDERS making a WEB = SPIDERWEB. The 'er' in the middle connects the two parts.
Conceptual Metaphor
COMPLEXITY IS A SPIDERWEB; DECEPTION IS A SPIDERWEB; INTERCONNECTEDNESS IS A SPIDERWEB.
Practice
Quiz
Which phrase best uses 'spiderweb' metaphorically?