Polilla (en. Moth)

/poˈliʎa/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
Insect belonging to the order Lepidoptera, which is usually small in size and nocturnal.
The moth landed on the clothes in the closet.
La polilla se posó sobre la ropa en el armario.
Larva of certain Lepidoptera that feeds on fabrics, books, or stored food.
Moths have wreaked havoc on the old books in the library.
Las polillas han hecho estragos en los viejos libros de la biblioteca.
Informal code to refer to a problem of insignificant details.
Don't worry, that's just a moth compared to the bigger problem.
No te preocupes, eso es solo una polilla en comparación con el problema mayor.

Etymology

From the Latin 'pŏlā', which means 'tiny' or 'small'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to be like a moth
To be very interested in something, especially in an obsessive way.
estar como una polilla

Related Words

butterfly
Lepidopteran insect larger than the moth.
mariposa
insect
Group of invertebrate animals that includes moths.
insecto
pest
Set of insects that cause damage to crops or goods.
plaga

Slang Meanings

A person who feels uncomfortable in social situations.
When I arrived at the party, I felt like a moth.
Cuando llegué a la fiesta, me sentí como una polilla.