gypsy moth

noun

plural gypsy moths
offensive
: spongy moth

Note: The Entomological Society of America officially renamed this insect the spongy moth in 2022 due to the offensiveness of the historical name.

see usage paragraph at gypsy

Examples of gypsy moth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
One of the biggest sources of stress and damage is defoliation of oaks and other trees by the spongy moth (formerly called the gypsy moth). Richard S. Ostfeld, STAT, 31 July 2023 These insects, formerly called gypsy moths, are poised for another year of damage in certain parts of the U.S.. Arricca Elin Sansone, Country Living, 14 June 2023 Will the gypsy moth kill my trees? Arricca Elin Sansone, Country Living, 6 July 2021 Previously called the gypsy moth, the Entomological Society of America changed the name to remove the derogatory term for the Romani people. Sarah Bowman, The Indianapolis Star, 19 Sep. 2022 See all Example Sentences for gypsy moth 

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gypsy moth was in 1742

Dictionary Entries Near gypsy moth

Cite this Entry

“Gypsy moth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gypsy%20moth. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

gypsy moth

noun

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