Definition of flyblown
1a : not pure : tainted a world flyblown with the vices of irresponsible power — V. L. Parringtonb : not bright and new : seedy, moth-eatenc : trite, hackneyed a long list of flyblown metaphors — Horizon
2a : infested with eggs or young larvae of a flesh fly or blowflyb : covered with flyspecks
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Did You Know?
One meaning of blow (used mostly, it seems, by 17th century entomologists) is "to deposit eggs or larvae on"-hence the blowfly, which lays its eggs on meat or wounds. Flyblown has its origins in the very unpleasant image of a blowfly's victim, and it's from this literal meaning that the more common senses come. Phrases such as flyblown shack and flyblown restaurant still suggest the actual presence of flies, if not necessarily their embryonic precursors.
1528
First Known Use of flyblown
1528
FLYBLOWN Defined for English Language Learners
flyblown
playDefinition of flyblown for English Language Learners
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: in poor and dirty condition : made dirty by flies : not suitable for eating
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