Dictionary

Explore meaning, context, and usage with an online dictionary experience optimized for multilingual workflows.

Clear

Try these words

Meaning of gadfly

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

gadfly

Pronunciation:/ˈɡædflaɪ/

noun

Definitions

  1. Any dipterous insect of the family Oestridae, commonly known as botflies.

    Synonyms:botfly
  2. A horsefly: any of various species of fly, of the family Tabanidae, noted for buzzing about animals and sucking their blood.

    Synonyms:horseflystoat-flystout
  3. One who upsets the status quo by posing upsetting or novel questions, or attempts to stimulate innovation by proving an irritant.

  4. One who merely irritates without making useful suggestions.