Butterfly
- Pronunciation
- /BUHT-er-flai/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Butterfly
- Plural
- Butterflies
Definition
A diverse group of insects in the order Lepidoptera, known for their brightly colored wings and fluttering flight patterns, which undergo complete metamorphosis from larva (caterpillar) to adult.
Etymology
Old English 'buttorfleoge', which combines 'buttor' (butter) and 'fleoge' (fly). The origin is unclear but may be related to the yellow coloration of some species' wings or an old belief that butterflies stole milk and butter.
Example
The Monarch butterfly is famous for its long migration from North America to Mexico.
Synonyms
- Lepidopteran
- Papilionid
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Butterflies are distinguished from moths by their diurnal activity, clubbed antennae, and more brightly colored wings. They play a vital role in pollination.