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How do you spell Caterpillar?

Correct spelling

caterpillar

Remember the hairy cat: caTERpillar has 'ter' like 'terrible' and 'ar' ending

Why is caterpillar spelled this way?

From Old French chatepelose, hairy cat. The fuzzy appearance of caterpillars reminded medieval observers of small, furry cats — nature named through playful resemblance.

Common misspellings of caterpillar

catapillarcaterpillercatepillarcatterpillar

Example

The monarch caterpillar munched steadily on the milkweed leaves before forming its chrysalis.

Frequently asked questions

How do you spell caterpillar?+
The correct spelling is "caterpillar". Remember the hairy cat: caTERpillar has 'ter' like 'terrible' and 'ar' ending
Is it catapillar or caterpillar?+
The correct spelling is "caterpillar", not "catapillar".

Other commonly misspelled words

imitation immaculate immediately immigrate

More spelling guides

inspection inspiration installation instigate

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