arctiid moth
- noun
- /ˈɑrkˌtiːɪd mɔθ/
- Specialized
:
polilla arctídea
- The arctiid moth displays vivid patterns that help warn predators of its toxicity.
Examples
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The larvae of the arctiid moth are covered in dense, bristly hairs.
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Did you see the arctiid moth on the window?
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Researchers discovered a new species of arctiid moth in the Amazon rainforest.
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The arctiid moth is known for its vibrant colors.
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Researchers discovered a new species of arctiid moth in the Amazon rainforest.
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The arctiid moth displays vivid patterns that help warn predators of its toxicity.
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The larvae of the arctiid moth are covered in dense, bristly hairs.
Synonyms
A moth with a thick body and broad wings, often with bright stripes or spots, whose caterpillars are hairy
A medium-sized moth with bright patterned wings and a caterpillar called a woolly bear
Surface Forms
Morphology
Both constituents directly contribute to the meaning: 'arctiid' denotes a particular kind of stout-bodied, patterned moth and 'moth' names the insect class, so the phrase simply refers to a moth of the arctiid type. This is a straightforward noun–noun subtype construction (hyponym + hypernym) that a learner who knows both words can compositionally interpret.
Etymology
Arctiid moth comes from an old Greek word used in arctiid that means 'bear', because the moths' caterpillars are very hairy and look like little 'woolly bears'. So the name helps you remember that these moths often have hairy caterpillars.
