blackfly

noun

black·​fly ˈblak-ˌflī How to pronounce blackfly (audio)
plural blackflies or blackfly
: any of various small dark-colored insects
especially : any of a family (Simuliidae and especially genus Simulium) of bloodsucking dipteran flies whose larvae usually live in flowing streams

Examples of blackfly in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bug Shirt Untreated loose-knit fabrics provide no defense from mosquitoes, blackflies, and ticks. Andrew Skurka, Outside Online, 21 May 2018

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of blackfly was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near blackfly

Cite this Entry

“Blackfly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/blackfly. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

blackfly

noun
black·​fly ˈblak-ˌflī How to pronounce blackfly (audio)
plural blackflies or blackfly
: a two-winged fly that bites and whose larvae live in flowing streams

Medical Definition

blackfly

noun
black·​fly ˈblak-ˌflī How to pronounce blackfly (audio)
plural blackflies
: any of a family (Simuliidae) and especially genus Simulium of bloodsucking dipteran flies
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