achemon sphinx

noun ach·e·mon sphinx \ ˈa-kə-ˌmän- , ə-ˈkē-mən- \

Definition of achemon sphinx

: a large hawk moth (Pholus achemon) having a caterpillar that feeds on the grapevine and Virginia creeper

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Origin and Etymology of achemon sphinx

New Latin achemon (specific epithet of Pholus achemon), probably from Greek, neuter of achemōn, acheumōn, present participle of achein, acheuein to grieve, annoy, from achos pain, distress

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First Known Use: 1856

in the meaning defined above

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