io moth n 1: large yellow American moth having a large eyelike spot on each hind wing; the larvae have stinging spines [syn: {io moth}, {Automeris io}]
Io moth \I"o moth`\ (?; 115). (Zool.) 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. [1913 Webster]