goliath bird spider

noun

variants or goliath bird-eating spider or goliath birdeater

plural goliath bird spiders or goliath bird-eating spiders or goliath birdeaters

: a very large, reddish-brown to black tarantula (Theraphosa blondi) of northern South America that may reach a weight of 6 ounces (170 grams) and have a leg span of up to 12 inches (30.5 centimeters)

The largest tarantula (the goliath bird spider) can cover a dinner plate!

—Deborah Churchman

The goliath bird-eating spider, which is as large as a human hand …

—Louise Gray

Word History

First Known Use

1987, in the meaning defined above