eggar

noun

egg·​ar

variants or less commonly egger

ˈegə(r),

ˈāg-

plural -s

: any of various moths of the family Lasiocampidae (as many members of the genera Eriogaster and Lasiocampa) that have nonfunctional mouthparts as adults and plumose antennae in the males and produce larvae that feed on the foliage of trees

Word History

Etymology

eggar alteration of egger; egger from egg entry 2 + -er; from the shape of the cocoon

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