io moth Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun large yellow American moth having a large eyelike spot on each hind wing; the larvae have stinging spines
    Automeris io.

WordNet

I"o moth`
Definitions
  1. (Zoöl.) A large and handsome American moth (Hyperchiria Io), having a large, bright-colored spot on each hind wing, resembling the spots on the tail of a peacock. The larva is covered with prickly hairs, which sting like nettles.

Webster 1913