Definition

A type of fly that belongs to the family Calliphoridae, known for laying eggs in decaying meat or open wounds.

Example

The blowfly was buzzing around the dead animal, looking for a place to lay its eggs.

Conversation

I saw a blowfly buzzing around the trash today.

Yikes, those things are so gross!

Yeah, they always seem to appear when there's something decaying.

True, they're nature's cleanup crew, but I still can't stand them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'blowfly' is formed from 'blow' (from Old English 'blāwan', meaning to blow or breathe) and 'fly' (from Old English 'flēoge', meaning a flying insect). The term 'blowfly' refers to a type of fly that is often associated with decaying matter, where it is attracted by the blowing or movement of air around such substances.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'blow' as the action of air moving, which attracts these flies, and 'fly' as the insect itself. This helps you remember that a blowfly is a type of fly that is drawn to decaying matter.

Visually Confused Words