Tarantula (Noun)
Meaning 1
Large southern European spider once thought to be the cause of tarantism (uncontrollable bodily movement).
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The tarantula of medieval European folklore was believed to cause hysterical convulsions in its victims, leading to the supposed condition tarantism.
- A common legend in southern Italy during the Middle Ages involved a female being bitten by a tarantula and subsequently exhibiting uncontrollable body movements.
- According to myth, victims of a tarantula bite were said to perform an uncontrollable dance known as the tarantella.
- Another possible effect of a tarantula bite was believed to be a frenzied dance performed by the victim in a frantic attempt to release the 'poison'.
- In medieval Europe, several reported cases of mass hysteria were supposedly linked to alleged tarantula bites, some of which turned out to be cases of psychological condition triggered by pre-existing social tensions.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
Large hairy tropical spider with fangs that can inflict painful but not highly venomous bites.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The exotic pet store sold a variety of tarantulas, from small Chilean rose to large Mexican red-knee species.
- While on a hike through the jungle, Sarah stumbled upon a massive golden-haired tarantula taking refuge under a nearby rock.
- This species of tarantula produces distinctive egg sacs filled with hundreds of tiny spiderlings before they all start venturing out.
- A nearby entomology professor became famous for milking the venom from Goliath Birdeater tarantulas to study its components.
- Chances are that Brazilian black tarantulas will hide in a dark corner and only attack if threatened, although their bites can cause intense pain in humans.