尺しゃく取とり

noun

inchworm; measuring worm; looper caterpillar

Refers to the caterpillar of geometer moths, known for its looping gait. The name 尺取 literally means 'measuring-taker' from its movement resembling a measuring action.

• 庭にわで尺しゃく取とり虫むしを見みつけた。

  I found an inchworm in the garden.

• 尺しゃく取とりは、体からだを伸のばしたり縮ちぢめたりして移い動どうする。

  Inchworms move by stretching and contracting their bodies.