Langimage
English

grub

|grub|

B2

/ɡrʌb/

digging or food

Etymology
Etymology Information

'grub' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'grubben,' where 'grubben' meant 'to dig or root in the ground.'

Historical Evolution

'grubben' transformed into the modern English word 'grub' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to dig or root in the ground,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'food' in informal contexts.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the larva of an insect, especially a beetle.

The garden was full of grubs.

Synonyms

Noun 2

informal term for food.

Let's grab some grub before the movie.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to dig or root around in the ground.

He grubbed around in the garden for worms.

Synonyms

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/04/21 01:44