Bombyliidae

plural noun

Bom·​by·​li·​i·​dae

ˌbämbəˈlīəˌdē

: a family of hairy-bodied often brightly colored two-winged flies many of which resemble bees and are called bee flies

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, from Bombylius (Linnaeus), a genus (from Greek bombyliós, bombýlios "buzzing insect, bumblebee," from bómbos "booming sound, buzz, hum" + -ylios, noun suffix) + -idae -idae

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now