robber fly

noun

1. any of numerous swift-flying, often large, dipterous insects of the family Asilidae that are predaceous on other insects.

robber fly

noun

1. any of the predatory dipterous flies constituting the family Asilidae , which have a strong bristly body with piercing mouthparts and which prey on other insects Also calledbee killerassassin fly

Word History and Origins

Origin of robber fly¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

He half-expected that the Robber Fly would pop out from behind a blossom at any moment and pounce upon him.

From Project Gutenberg

Once the Robber Fly pounces on you you'll be so frightened you can't even squirm.

From Project Gutenberg

But as time passed, his dread of meeting the Robber Fly gradually faded.

From Project Gutenberg

And Buster expected every instant to feel the cruel beak of the Robber Fly, when there was a sudden commotion behind his back.

From Project Gutenberg

At last a spiteful worker informed him that he had never been in the clutches of the Robber Fly at all.

From Project Gutenberg