common housefly

noun

: housefly sense 1

The common housefly, in particular, annoys because it stays close to houses and domestic animal shelters, is most active during the day and loves to shelter indoors.

—Alan Hayes, The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, Australia), 29 Dec. 2001

Recently a team of British scientists declared that the common housefly is the most talented aerodynamicist on the planet …

—National Geographic, June 2006

Word History

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined above

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