Definition

A type of small butterfly that belongs to a specific subfamily, known for having streaks on the underside of its wings and fine hair-like projections on the hind wings.

Example

The hairstreak fluttered gracefully among the flowers in the garden.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a hairstreak butterfly?

I think I saw one at the park last week; they’re so pretty!

Yeah, I love their unique patterns, especially the streaks on their wings.

They really are fascinating — I should look for more next time I go out!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hairstreak → The word is formed from "hair" (from Old English "haer", meaning the fine strands growing from the skin) and "streak" (from Old English "streaca", meaning a line or stripe). The term "hairstreak" refers to a butterfly with fine lines or streaks on its wings that resemble hair-like patterns.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hair' as the fine strands and 'streak' as the lines or stripes — a hairstreak butterfly has wing patterns that look like fine hair lines.

Visually Confused Words