painted lady
Noun (countable): - A species of butterfly: "painted lady" refers to Vanessa cardui, a migratory butterfly with orange, black, and white patterned wings. This is the primary meaning in biology and entomology.
- (A common butterfly species found on every continent except Antarctica.)
- (Observing the butterfly in large numbers during its seasonal movement.)
"Painted lady" as a term for a butterfly: In scientific and casual contexts, it is used to denote the specific species.
- The painted lady is known for its long-distance migration, similar to the monarch butterfly. (Highlighting the butterfly's migratory behaviour.)
"Painted lady" in art or literature: Occasionally used metaphorically to describe a woman with heavy makeup or a painted appearance, though this is less common and may be considered dated or informal.
- She looked like a painted lady with her bright lipstick and rouge. (Describing a woman with noticeable cosmetics; note: this usage is not the primary meaning.)
Painted lady butterfly (n): a full term to specify the insect, avoiding ambiguity.
- The painted lady butterfly is often seen in gardens during summer. (Emphasizing the butterfly species.)
Vanessa cardui (scientific name): the binomial nomenclature for the painted lady.
- Vanessa cardui is the scientific name for the painted lady. (Formal biological identification.)
- Cosmopolitan butterfly: a descriptive term because the painted lady is found globally.
- Thistle butterfly: an alternative common name, as the caterpillars often feed on thistles.
- (The term is primarily a species name and does not form common idiomatic expressions.)
Note: The reference dictionary (English-Vietnamese) translates "painted lady" as "bướm vẽ" (painted butterfly), confirming the primary meaning as a butterfly species. Avoid using "painted lady" to refer to a woman unless in a specific historical or literary context, as this may be outdated or pejorative.