Definition

1. Noun (Proper):
   • A taxonomic genus of moths: "Genus Acherontia" is the scientific name for a specific genus of large moths within the family Sphingidae.
   • The genus containing the death's-head hawkmoth: This genus is most notably defined by and contains the species commonly known as the death's-head hawkmoth, recognized by the skull-like pattern on its thorax.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The genus Acherontia is known for its distinctive markings and unusual behavior.
  • Entomologists study the genus Acherontia to understand its migratory patterns.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic context: Used in scientific writing and classification to refer specifically to this group of moths.
  • The specimen was definitively placed within the genus Acherontia.

Variants and Related Words

• Acherontia (n): The abbreviated form of the genus name, often used in more technical contexts.
  • The species Acherontia atropos is the most famous.
• Death's-head hawkmoth / Death's-head moth (n): The common name for the most prominent species within this genus.
  • The death's-head hawkmoth is a member of genus Acherontia.

Synonyms

• Death's-head moth genus: A descriptive synonym referencing its most famous member.

Noun

1. death's-head moth