Papaipema

noun

Pa·​pai·​pe·​ma

pəˌpīˈpēmə

: a genus of noctuid moths containing several that are pests on corn and other plants in parts of North America

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, probably from Greek papai, exclamation of suffering + pēma suffering, calamity

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!