Experts Seeking To Rename Bugs With 'Ethnic Slur' In Name KEY POINTS The names are said to contain a derogatory term for Romani people It's part of the effort to replace inappropriate or offensive common names of insects Experts are dropping recognized common names of insects that are deemed derogatory or offensive, including "gypsy moth" and "gypsy ant." The Entomological Society of America (ESA) announced in a statement on July 7 that it has removed the names "gypsy moth" and "gypsy ant" in its Common Names of Insects and Related Organisms List. According to the organization, the move is a part of its efforts to "review and replace" common insect names that are deemed "inappropriate or offensive."