noun / verb
spider
SPY-der/ˈspaɪdər/
An eight-legged arachnid commonly associated with webs.
The spider rests at the web's center with eight legs spread outward.
Etymology
Old English spiðra is etymologically a “spinner”: the animal was named for its thread-making. The name highlights the silk-spinning behavior familiar from web-building spiders.
In context
The spider attacks from behind. ♪ [DRAMATIC MUSIC] ♪ Her venom does the dirty work full body paralysis.
More examples
- She carries the spider outside in a cup.
- Some spiders hunt their prey instead of trapping it in webs.
- The tiny spider climbs up the window frame.
Forms
spider · spiders
spidery adjective — Having long, thin legs or branching lines.
Similar words
- arachnid
- A broader category including spiders, scorpions, ticks, and mites.