death's-head moth

American  

noun

1. a European hawk moth, Acherontia atropos, having markings on the back of the thorax that resemble a human skull.

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death's-head moth British  

noun

1. a European hawk moth, Acherontia atropos, having markings resembling a human skull on its upper thorax

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Etymology

Origin of death's-head moth

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

death's-head moth

The brush of a death's-head moth against a cold black screen.

From "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury

When this picture was painted, the Oxford Movement was in the air; the shepherd and the shepherdess were alike busy with the death’s-head moth.

From Holman Hunt Masterpieces in Colour by Mary E. Coleridge

What should an old death's-head moth know, whose eyes were so weak that a farthing rushlight blinded them?

From Bimbi by Ouida

The death's-head moth crawled shivering on the rug.

From Famous Modern Ghost Stories by Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers

Nan was almost sure that this must be the famous death's-head moth she had read about in school; but she was not confident enough to say anything to old Toby Vanderwiller.

From Nan Sherwood at Pine Camp or, the Old Lumberman's Secret by Annie Roe Carr