Maggot

Pronunciation: /MAG-uhts/

Category: Life Cycle

Singular: Maggot

Plural: Maggots

Definition

Larval stage of flies, typically characterized by a soft, legless, and cylindrical body.

Etymology

From Middle English 'magot', from Old French 'magot' meaning 'whim' or 'fanciful notion,' and later extended to refer to the larval stage of flies.

Example

Maggots are commonly found in decomposing organic matter, where they play a crucial role in the process of decomposition.

Synonyms

Fly larvae

Related Terms

Larva
Diptera
Decomposition
Pupa

Usage Notes

Maggots are often used in forensic entomology to estimate the time of death. They are also utilized in medical treatments for cleaning necrotic tissue.