painted lady

[peyn-tid ley-dee]

noun

1. a butterfly, Vanessa cardui, one of the most widespread butterflies in the world, having brownish-black and orange wings with four eyespots on each hindwing.

2. Often Painted Lady a Victorian or Edwardian house painted in at least three colors to enhance the intricate exterior detailing.

   Our painted lady is an 1868 Victorian with peach clapboards, periwinkle doors, and ornate features in white and pearl gray.

painted lady

noun

1. a migratory nymphalid butterfly, Vanessa cardui, with pale brownish-red mottled wings

Word History and Origins

Origin of painted lady¹

First recorded in 1690–1700 painted lady for 1, 1975–80 painted lady for 2