alfalfa webworm (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ælˈfæl.fə ˈwɛbˌwɜrm/

Meaning and Usage

The term "alfalfa webworm" refers to a specific type of moth in the family Pyralidae, particularly known for its larval stage, which feeds on alfalfa and other crops. The caterpillars of the alfalfa webworm create silk webbing and feed on the foliage, which can lead to significant damage in agricultural settings. The term is specialized and used primarily in agricultural and entomological contexts, making it more common in written forms, such as research papers, articles, and farming guides, rather than everyday oral speech.

Frequency of Use

The term is not commonly used in casual conversation but may appear frequently in specific fields related to agriculture, pest control, and entomology.

Example Sentences

1. The farmer was concerned about the infestation of alfalfa webworm in his fields.
   Фермер был обеспокоен нашествием альфальцевого webworm в своих полях.

2. Effective pest management strategies must consider the life cycle of the alfalfa webworm.
   Эффективные стратегии борьбы с вредителями должны учитывать жизненный цикл альфальцевого webworm.

3. The use of insecticides can help control alfalfa webworm populations during peak seasons.
   Использование инсектицидов может помочь контролировать популяции альфальцевого webworm в пик сезонов.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "alfalfa webworm" is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions, there are phrases related to agriculture and pests that convey broader meanings:

1. "Weed out the competition" - To eliminate or remove rivals. "It's important to weed out the competition to ensure the success of your agricultural business."
   "Важно исключить конкурентов, чтобы обеспечить успешность вашего сельскохозяйственного бизнеса."

2. "Bite the bullet" - To endure a painful or unpleasant situation that is unavoidable. "Farmers often have to bite the bullet when dealing with pests like the alfalfa webworm."
   "Фермерам часто приходится стиснуть зубы, сталкиваясь с такими вредителями, как альфальцевый webworm."

3. "Sow the seeds of doubt" - To instill uncertainty or distrust. "The problems caused by the alfalfa webworm can sow the seeds of doubt among local growers."
   "Проблемы, вызванные альфальцевым webworm, могут сеять семена сомнения среди местных фермеров."

Etymology

The word "alfalfa" comes from the Arabic 'al-fac-facah,' meaning "father of all foods." It refers to the plant Medicago sativa, which is widely cultivated as feed. "Webworm" derives from the combination of "web," referring to the silken webbing produced by the larvae, and "worm," which traditionally refers to the larval stage of various insects.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: Alfalfa pest, alfalfa caterpillar.
Antonyms: Beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs, lacewings).