larva

1. (figurative) A preliminary stage of someone or something, before it has fully matured, especially a time of growth rather than one of performance.Examples: "In the fourteenth we find, but still in Latin, a quasi-historical drama, in the larva stage of monologue recitation, founded on a subject from the national annals—that of Ezzelino, tyrant-duke of Padua."; "Man's larva stage is first announced by strong pathetic squalls; — Conscious knowledge of his helplessness, — dependency, appalls, — Evokes maternal sympathy,— for him she will provide,— Most proud mother, happy parent, as he nestles by her side."; "The larva stage of the child's mind demands much forage material."figuratively