looper

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun small hairless caterpillar having legs on only its front and rear segments; mostly larvae of moths of the family Geometridae

From loop + -er.

Sometimes they liken themselves to twigs--" "That is what we do," cried the loopers. — "Wee Tim'rous Beasties": Studies of Animal life and Character, Douglas English
Among that beautiful family of moths, the Phalænidæ, comprising the Geometers, Loopers, or Span-worms, are two formidable foes to fruit growers. — Our Common Insects: A Popular Account of the Insects of Our Fields, Forests, Gardens and Houses, A. S. (Alpheus Spring) Packard
The 4th French Army was retiring before von Hahsen and a third tidal wave of armed Germanity--humping its huge snaky columns after the fashion of the looper caterpillar--along the menaced line of the Meuse. — That Which Hath Wings: A Novel of the Day, Richard Dehan

measuring worm, inchworm

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