Sphingidae
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9.9
- noun
- /ˈsfɪŋɪˌdeɪ/
- Specialized
- Butterfly enthusiasts often study Sphingidae due to their remarkable hovering skills.
- Sphingidae moths
Examples
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There are over 1,200 species classified under the Sphingidae family.
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The Sphingidae family includes some of the fastest-flying moths in the world.
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The Sphingidae family includes many species that are active at dusk.
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Have you ever seen a Sphingidae moth in your garden?
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The Sphingidae family includes moths that are known for their ability to hover in mid-air like hummingbirds.
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Many gardeners welcome Sphingidae moths because their larvae help pollinate various plants.
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The distinct, robust body of Sphingidae makes them easily recognizable among other moths.
Synonyms
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6.5
A large night insect with long wings that hovers to drink flower nectar
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8.1
A large moth with long wings that hovers to drink flower nectar
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9.9
A large moth with long narrow wings that hovers to feed from flowers
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8.1
A group of moths called hawk moths that fly fast and hover to feed on nectar
Compounds
- Specialized
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8.1
A group of moths called hawk moths that fly fast and hover to feed on nectar
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word Sphingidae comes from the Greek name Sphinx, and a helpful way to remember it is to think of some caterpillars that lift their front body like a 'sphinx' statue; so the name now refers to the family of strong, fast hawkmoths.