gallinipper

noun

gal·li·nip·per ˈga-lə-ˌni-pər

chiefly Southern US and Midland US

: any of various insects (such as a large mosquito or crane fly)

Word History

Etymology

earlier gurnipper, gal-knipper, of obscure origin

First Known Use

1709, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of gallinipper was in 1709

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Browse Nearby Words

galling

gallinipper

gallinule

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Gallinipper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gallinipper. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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