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mite

clothes moth

noun MEET Rare

Origin: Old French mite, tiny creature

Usage Note

Mite is the clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) whose larvae damage wool and fur — not to be confused with acarien (dust mite) or tique (tick). Mangé aux mites (moth-eaten) is a common adjective phrase. Wardrobes are often protected with des boules de naphtaline (mothballs) against mites.

Examples

"Les mites ont abîmé mon pull en laine."

Natural Translation

The moths have damaged my woollen jumper.

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