Definition

A type of fly that feeds on the blood of animals and is known for its painful bite; these flies belong to the family Tabanidae and include horseflies.

Example

The tabanid buzzed around the horses, looking for a place to land and feed.

Conversation

Have you ever been bitten by a tabanid?

Yeah, those bites are the worst!

I read they can be pretty aggressive, especially near water.

Definitely! I try to stay away from areas where I know they hang out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tabanid → The word 'tabanid' comes from the Latin 'tabanus' (meaning horsefly) and the suffix '-id' (meaning related to or belonging to). Thus, 'tabanid' refers to insects that are related to or belong to the horsefly family.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tabanus' as the name for horseflies, and remember that 'tabanid' refers to insects that are related to horseflies.

Visually Confused Words