gypsy moth

American  

noun

1. a moth, Porthetria dispar, introduced into the U.S. from Europe, the larvae of which feed on the foliage of shade and other trees.

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gypsy moth British  

noun

1. a variant spelling of gipsy moth

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Etymology

Origin of gypsy moth

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

An infestation of gypsy moths was visible on the trunk; gauzy deposits of tiny eggs were imperiling the tree’s health.

From New York Times

In addition, research is being conducted at Cornell University to find a fungus to kill the spotted lantern fly, similar to how a fungus was used to control the gypsy moth population.

From Washington Post

The moves come as other wildlife organizations consider revising names that some consider offensive, including the Entomological Society of America, which this month dropped “gypsy moth” and “gypsy ant” from its insect list.

From Seattle Times

The decision to rename both the “gypsy moth” and the “gypsy ant” coincides with the launch of the organization’s Better Common Names Project.

From Washington Post

On Wednesday, the Entomological Society of America announced it was removing “gypsy moth” and “gypsy ant” as recognized common names for two insects.

From New York Times