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 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.
The eggs hatch into larvae that burrow into the wound and feed on living tissue; then, after about seven days of feeding, the larvae drop to the ground, burrow into the soil and pupate. Mateo Rosiles, USA Today, 15 June 2026 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, 28 May 2026 The adult wasps die during the year and larvae generally pupate and emerge the following year. Pamm Cooper, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2026 Once summer comes, native milkweeds are covered with monarch larvae that will pupate before the adults emerge in all their glory. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Pupate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pupate. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

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 noun
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