Swallowtail

/swˈɒlə‍ʊtˌe‍ɪl/

/swˈɑːloʊtˌeɪl/

[noun]

Swallowtail

[NOUN]

a man's full-dress jacket with two long tapering tails at the back

synonyms : morning coat

swallow-tailed coat

a term used to refer to several species of butterflies known for their distinctive, elongated hindwings

What is a "swallowtail"?

A swallowtail is a magnificent butterfly species found in various parts of the world. It is named after its distinctively shaped hindwings that resemble the forked tail of a swallow. Swallowtail butterflies are known for their large size and vibrant coloration, often featuring striking combinations of black, yellow, and blue. They are agile flyers, gracefully gliding through the air with their characteristic wingbeat pattern. Swallowtail butterflies have a diverse diet, feeding on nectar from a wide range of flowers, and are also known to visit mud puddles to extract essential minerals. Their beauty and elegance have made them beloved and iconic symbols of the natural world.

Examples

1. The North American pipevine swallowtail is so toxic that at least six other species of butterflies and moths wear its disguise.

2. The Lamproptera meges, or green dragontail butterfly, are a species of swallowtail butterfly that can be found throughout Asia.

3. If you look here at the spicebush swallowtail, it does not have a cocoon.

4. They're gonna get a little bit bigger before they pupate, but these are swallowtails.

Nearby words