Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
Catocala nupta

Catocala nupta

9.9
A moth with dull front wings and bright red back wings
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : Catocala nupta
  • The Catocala nupta is easily identified by its striking red-marked hind wings.

Examples

  • Entomologists often study the coloring patterns of Catocala nupta to understand mimicry in moths.

  • Several Catocala nupta moths were spotted near the riverbank last summer.

  • Look, a Catocala nupta!

  • I saw a Catocala nupta last night.

  • Entomologists often study the coloring patterns of Catocala nupta to understand its role in the ecosystem.

  • The Catocala nupta is easily identified by its striking red-marked hind wings, which are visible when it flies.

  • Several Catocala nupta moths were spotted near the riverbank last summer, showcasing their distinctive appearance.

Synonyms

red underwing
vsCatocala nupta
9.9

A moth with dull front wings and bright red back wings

is one specific species within that broader moth group

Surface Forms

Catocala nupta singular
Catocala nuptae plural

Morphology

Catocala + nupta

This is a Latin binomial (scientific name) whose constituents are not English lexical items and are listed as not found in the dictionary, so a B1 learner who knows the constituent entries would not be able to infer ‘a species of moth’ from them. Taxonomic names function as arbitrary labels rather than compositional English phrases, making the meaning unpredictable without prior exposure.

Etymology

Catocala nupta is a moth that hides bright red back wings under dull grey front wings, so when it opens them there is a sudden flash of red like a secret surprise. That's why it is called the 'red underwing' and is remembered for its red-marked back wings.