death's head moth
(also death's head hawkmoth)
noun
A very large hawkmoth of Europe and Africa, Acherontia atropos, which has a marking on the back of the thorax somewhat resembling a skull, and is also noted for its ability to make a loud squeaking sound.
Origin
Late 18th century; earliest use found in The Gentleman's Magazine. After French papillon à tête de mort, with allusion to the skull-like markings on the thorax of the moth.