syrphid fly

noun

syr·​phid fly ˈsər-fəd- How to pronounce syrphid fly (audio)
ˈsir-
: hoverfly

Examples of syrphid fly in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Late spring, after threat of frost has passed Dill is a fabulous garden plant, providing flavorful foliage and seeds for kitchen use, as well as vibrant blooms beloved by predatory wasps, lacewings, and syrphid flies. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 9 May 2026 First, mantids feed indiscriminately, consuming a wide variety of insects including beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies, and syrphid flies. — Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for syrphid fly

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Syrphidae, from Syrphus, genus of flies, from Greek syrphos gnat

First Known Use

circa 1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of syrphid fly was circa 1891

Rhymes for syrphid fly

See All Rhymes for syrphid fly

Browse Nearby Words

Syrphidae
syrphid fly
syrphus fly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Syrphid fly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/syrphid%20fly. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on syrphid fly

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about syrphid fly

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