noun
botfly
BOT-fly
Botfly (noun) means any of a family of flies whose larvae live as parasites on animals, including humans. Example: “The vet checked the horse for botfly larvae under its skin.”
noun
1
Any of a family of flies whose larvae live as parasites on animals, including humans.
"The vet checked the horse for botfly larvae under its skin."
"Botflies lay their eggs on a host animal's fur or skin."
"A botfly larva can cause a painful swelling as it grows beneath the skin."
How to use botfly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA fly whose grubs live as parasites in the skin of animals or people.
When to use it
It is a plain biological term used in veterinary and everyday contexts alike.
Common pairings
botfly larva
botfly infestation
human botfly
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The vet checked the horse for _____ larvae under its skin.
Etymology
Botfly is a compound of bot, referring to the larva of this insect, and fly.
Frequently asked questions
What is a botfly?
It is a fly whose larvae live as parasites on the bodies of animals, including humans.
Are botflies dangerous?
Their larvae burrow into a host's skin as parasites, which can cause irritation and swelling.
Which animals do botflies affect?
Many animals can act as hosts, and humans are among them.
What is the meaning of botfly?
"botfly" (noun) means any of a family of flies whose larvae live as parasites on animals, including humans.
