Mothy

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Having traits or characteristics reminiscent of moths, including their appearance or habits
2. Indicative of an infestation by moths, often associated with deterioration or damage in materials
3. Exhibiting qualities or features similar to those found in moths, such as delicate wings or nocturnal behavior ; displaying evidence of moth presence typically causing harm to fabric or stored goods

Etymology: "Mothy" is a plain formation: the noun "moth" with the English suffix "-y", which turns a noun into an adjective meaning "having the qualities of, or characterized by" the thing named. Moth itself is an Old English word, so "mothy" is simply an old base wearing a common ending. The sense has two strands. One describes things that resemble moths, such as soft, dusty, fluttering, or nocturnal qualities. The other, and more practical, describes fabric or stored goods that show signs of moth damage, where the holes and bare patches are the evidence of an infestation. Both meanings grow directly from the insect's name, with no detour through another language.

Synonyms: infested, larval, pest-ridden, decayed, damaged

Antonyms: fresh, clean, new, whole, undamaged