Housefly: meaning, definitions and examples
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housefly
[ ˈhaʊsˌflaɪ ]
insect type
The housefly is a common insect belonging to the family Muscidae. Scientifically known as Musca domestica, it is typically characterized by its grayish body and large red eyes. Houseflies are commonly found in homes and around human habitats, primarily because they are attracted to food sources, especially decaying organic matter. They play a significant role in the ecosystem as decomposers, though they are often considered pests due to their potential to spread disease. Their life cycle includes stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult, and they are known for their rapid reproduction rates, laying hundreds of eggs in a short period.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- There was a housefly buzzing around the kitchen.
- The housefly landed on the fruit bowl.
- I noticed a housefly on the window sill.
- Houseflies are often associated with unsanitary conditions.
Translations
Translations of the word "housefly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mosca doméstica
🇮🇳 घर की मक्खी
🇩🇪 Hausfliegen
🇮🇩 lalat rumah
🇺🇦 домашня муха
🇵🇱 muszka domowa
🇯🇵 ハエ
🇫🇷 mouche domestique
🇪🇸 mosca doméstica
🇹🇷 ev sineği
🇰🇷 집파리
🇸🇦 ذباب المنزل
🇨🇿 muška domácí
🇸🇰 muchy domácej
🇨🇳 家蝇
🇸🇮 hišna muha
🇮🇸 heimafluga
🇰🇿 үй шыбыны
🇬🇪 სახლური ფუტკარი
🇦🇿 ev milçəyi
🇲🇽 mosca doméstica
Word origin
The word 'housefly' is a compound of 'house' and 'fly,' with 'house' indicating the common association of these flies with human dwellings. The term 'fly' comes from the Old English 'flēoge,' which is akin to the Proto-Germanic '*flugnô' and has cognates in several other languages, including Dutch 'vlieg' and German 'fliegen.' The scientific name, Musca domestica, signifies its domestication and frequent presence in human environments. The categorization of such insects dates back to at least the 13th century when flies were recognized as pests, particularly in relation to hygiene and food safety. Throughout history, houseflies have been subjects of study in relation to their role in disease transmission, especially in the context of unsanitary conditions.