sphinx moth

American  

noun

1. hawk moth.

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sphinx moth British  

noun

1. another name for the hawk moth

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Etymology

Origin of sphinx moth

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

Sightings of the white-lined sphinx moth — Hyles lineata in scientific terms — have been reported “all over” Point Reyes National Seashore north of San Francisco.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 8, 2023

“Unless this is a sphinx moth caterpillar who has been stressed and agitated into displaying its osmeterium,” says Jackson.

From National Geographic • Dec. 28, 2017

But I doubt you’ve heard of any World Wildlife Fund campaigns to protect the fabulous green sphinx moth, right?

From New York Times • Oct. 21, 2017

Yet the adult, the Carolina sphinx moth, is the plant's preferred pollinator.

From Nature • Feb. 28, 2017

The long, white, trumpet-shape type of lily chooses for her lover the sphinx moth.

From Wild Flowers An Aid to Knowledge of Our Wild Flowers and Their Insect Visitors by Blanchan, Neltje