bogong moth

noun

bo·​gong moth
ˈbōˌgȯŋ-,
-gäŋ-
variants or bugong moth
ˈbüˌ-
: an Australian noctuid moth (Agrotis infusa) that is made into a paste and eaten by the aborigines when the moths estivate in huge clusters in rocky mountains to which they migrate from the breeding grounds many miles away

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Ngarigu (Australian Aboriginal language formerly spoken from Canberra southwest to Omeo in Victoria) buguŋ

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

Dictionary Entries Near bogong moth

Cite this Entry

“Bogong moth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bogong%20moth. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!