moth
UK[mɒθ]US[mɔːθ]
n
a usually nocturnal insect with a stout body and feathery or hairlike antennae, related to the butterfly but typically resting with its wings spread flat.
n
a person attracted to something that is potentially harmful or destructive.
Etymology
the word "moth" originates from the old english "moþþe," which referred to the insect. this term has cognates in other germanic languages, such as old norse "motti" and middle dutch "mot." its ultimate origin is likely proto-germanic "muthōn" or "muttōn." the semantic connection to destructive attraction, as in the phrase "like a moth to a flame," is a metaphorical extension that draws upon the insect's observed behavior of being drawn to light, often to its detriment.
Analysis
the word "moth" is a simplex word of old english origin. it does not contain separable morphemes in modern english.
Examples
a small brown moth was fluttering against the windowpane.
the woolen sweater was ruined, full of holes from a moth infestation.
he was like a moth to the flame, irresistibly drawn to the glamour and danger of the city.