Orb web is the correct spelling for the type of spider web that is typically circular in shape. The word ‘orb’ is pronounced as /ɔːrb/ with a long ‘o’ sound, and the ‘b’ is pronounced softly. The word ‘web’ is pronounced as /wɛb/ with a short ‘e’ sound, and the ‘b’ is pronounced more prominently. The spelling of this word is a clear example of how pronunciation and spelling can be connected, and understanding the IPA phonetic transcription can help with accurate spelling and pronunciation.
An orb web is a strong and intricate, circular-shaped spider web typically built by a variety of spiders belonging to the family Araneidae. This web design is characterized by a distinctive spiral pattern created by radial threads and circular sectors.
The orb web is meticulously constructed by the spider using strong silk threads that are produced in specialized glands, located in the spider's abdomen. The radial threads serve as the framework or skeleton of the web, radiating out from a central point. These threads are carefully attached to surrounding objects such as trees, plants, or buildings, providing stability and support for the overall structure. The circular sectors, also known as capture spirals, are made up of sticky silk that captures flying insects that unwittingly fly into the web.
Orb webs are remarkable in their design efficiency, allowing spiders to effectively capture prey while minimizing potential damage to the web caused by struggling insects. Spiders that build orb webs are generally passive hunters, relying on the web's design and silk properties to immobilize and secure their prey. After capturing their victim, these spiders quickly approach, delivering immobilizing venom before wrapping it in silk for later consumption.
The structural complexity and precision exhibited by orb webs have fascinated scientists and inspired research into the properties and functional aspects of spider silk. The orb web represents a remarkable example of nature's ingenuity, demonstrating both the aesthetic beauty and evolutionary adaptability of spiders in their web-building behaviors.
The etymology of the word "orb web" can be traced back to the Middle English word "orb" meaning "circle" or "sphere". It originated from the Latin word "orbis", which also means "circle" or "disk". In this context, "orb" refers to the circular shape of the web spun by certain spiders. The word "web" comes from the Old English word "wǣb", which means "woven fabric" or "net". Hence, the term "orb web" refers to the circular spider web spun by orb-weaving spiders.