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Definition of underwing
1 : one of the posterior wings of an insect
2 : any of various noctuid moths (especially genus Catocala) that have the hind wings banded with contrasting colors (such as red and black) —called also underwing moth
3 : the underside of a bird's wing
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The large yellow underwing moth, for instance, can use the moon’s azimuth (or horizontal bearing) to help orient its flight—a skill that other creatures, such as sand fleas, also employ to great effect.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'underwing.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of underwing
1535
2
underwing
adjective
un·der·wing
Definition of underwing
: placed or growing underneath the wing underwing rockets
First Known Use of underwing
1896
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