lackey moth

noun

variants or less commonly lackey
plural -s
: a European moth (Malacosoma neustria) with a larva that is a tent caterpillar sometimes injurious to orchard trees and other woody plants

Word History

Etymology

so called from the resemblance of the caterpillar's coat to a footman's livery

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Dictionary Entries Near lackey moth

Cite this Entry

“Lackey moth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lackey%20moth. Accessed 7 Dec. 2022.

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