hairstreak
noun
\
Definition of hairstreak
: any of a subfamily (Theclinae of the family Lycaenidae) of small butterflies usually having striped markings on the underside of the wings and thin filamentous projections from the hind wings
Examples of hairstreak in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Last summer, the elusive white-letter hairstreak butterfly was spotted in Scotland for the first time in 133 years. — Brigit Katz, Smithsonian, "This Butterfly Recently Returned to Scotland. Now, It’s Laying Eggs," 19 Feb. 2018 The Butterfly Conservation team has observed the white-letter hairstreak gradually spreading northwards, possibly due to warming climates. — Brigit Katz, Smithsonian, "This Butterfly Recently Returned to Scotland. Now, It’s Laying Eggs," 19 Feb. 2018 The white-letter hairstreak, which is native to the UK, has come under severe threat in recent years. — Brigit Katz, Smithsonian, "Elusive Butterfly Spotted in Scotland For the First Time in 133 Years," 17 Aug. 2017 In 1884, a white-letter hairstreak butterfly was spotted flitting about in Scotland. — Brigit Katz, Smithsonian, "Elusive Butterfly Spotted in Scotland For the First Time in 133 Years," 17 Aug. 2017 The Fulvous hairstreak, another brown butterfly that feeds on Brazilian pepper, is now showing up north of Melbourne. — Jenny Staletovich, miamiherald, "What counting Florida butterflies can tell the world about climate change," 7 June 2017These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'hairstreak.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on hairstreak
What made you want to look up hairstreak? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Musical Words Quiz
-
- Which word describes a musical performance marked by the absence of instrumental accompaniment?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Share hairstreak
Resources for hairstreak