Definition

Noun A small, typically yellowish or buff-colored moth whose larvae (caterpillars) feed on and damage materials of animal origin, such as wool, fur, silk, and feathers, which are found in clothing, carpets, and upholstery.

Usage

The term "clothes moth" refers specifically to the adult insect, but the primary concern and damage are caused by its larval stage. It is used to identify a pest that infests and ruins natural fiber items in homes.

Examples

• The sweater had holes in it because of a clothes moth infestation.
• Cedar blocks are often used to repel clothes moths from wardrobes.
• Identifying a clothes moth is the first step in protecting valuable textiles.

Advanced Usage

• As a collective term: "Clothes moth" can be used to refer to the problem generically, even when discussing the larvae.
  • The entire collection was at risk from clothes moth.
• In scientific/entomological contexts: It specifies moths from the family Tineidae, particularly genera like (common clothes moth) and (case-bearing clothes moth).

Variants and Related Words

• Clothes moth larvae: The caterpillar stage that actually consumes the fibers.
• Webbing clothes moth (): The most common species, whose larvae spin silken tunnels.
• Case-bearing clothes moth (): A species whose larvae carry a portable case.
• Moth (general): The broader category of insects; not all moths are clothes moths.
• Textile pest: A general term for insects that damage fabrics.

Synonyms

• Fabric moth
• Wool moth
• Textile moth

Related Phrases & Idioms

• Moth-eaten: An idiom describing something old, damaged, or decrepit, originating from the damage caused by clothes moth larvae.
  • He found a moth-eaten uniform in the old trunk.

Noun

1. any of several small yellowish or buff-colored moths whose larvae eat organic matter e.g. woolens