in natural history, a name given by Linnaeus to insects in that state, called by other writers eruca or caterpillar. See Transformation of INSECTS. LARVÆ, in antiquity, derived from the Hetrufcan word lar or lars, signifying "prince or lord," denoted the ghosts of the deceased, considered as wicked and mischievous. Hence is formed the term larvatus, i.e., larvā indutus or demoniacus. The ingenious Mr Farmer urges the etymology and use of this term to prove, that the heathen demons were human ghosts.—The larvae were also called lemures.

LARVÆ, in mineralogy, the same with petrifactions. See PETRIFICATIONS.