death's-head

American  

[deths-hed] / ˈdɛθsˌhɛd /

noun

1. a human skull, especially as a symbol of mortality.

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death's-head British  

noun

1. a human skull or a representation of one

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Etymology

Origin of death's-head

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

"If you look at an adult death's-head hawkmoth you'd see what an incredibly beautiful animal it is."

From BBC • Aug. 14, 2022

Their flight paths suggest these death’s-head hawk moths have some complex navigation skills, the authors said, challenging earlier ideas that insects are just wanderers.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 11, 2022

Furthermore, he says, the noises made by the three death’s-head species are all different, as are the honeybee species they each target, so “the squeaks may be adapted to the specific requirements of those bees.”

From National Geographic • Aug. 11, 2015

As the resident teller of ugly truths, David strangely seems the least complex character, and Mr. Schnetzer looks entirely too hale and hearty to be an oracular death’s-head.

From New York Times • Nov. 6, 2014

Over his armor of plate and mail Ser Richard wore his quilted doublet, blazoned with three death’s-head moths on a field of ash and bone.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin

Related Words

• warning