black-headed budworm

noun

: the bright green brownish headed (black when young) larva of a small variably marked grayish moth (Acleris variana) that is a serious pest of hemlock, spruce, and fir throughout much of the northern U.S. and Canada feeding on the new foliage and webbing it into mats

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now