syrphid

[ sur-fid ]

noun

1. syrphid fly.

adjective

1. belonging or pertaining to the family Syrphidae.

syrphid

/ ˈsɜːfɪd /

noun

1. any dipterous fly of the family Syrphidae, typically having a coloration mimicking that of certain bees and wasps: includes the hover flies

Word History and Origins

Origin of syrphid¹

1890–95; < New Latin Syrphidae family name, equivalent to Syrph ( us ) a genus (< Greek sýrphos gnat) + New Latin -idae -id ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of syrphid¹

C19: from Greek surphos gnat

Example Sentences

Gardeners have often looked to companion plants for pest control, as well-matched partners can attract natural enemies like syrphid flies and parasitic wasps to act as biological-control agents.

From New York Times

The loudly buzzing syrphid fly, often mistaken for a bee, lays its eggs on leaves of aphis-infested plants; the hatching larvae then consume immense numbers of aphids.

From Literature

Chemical sprays give only partial control and are lethal to beneficial insects such as lady beetles, syrphid flies and lacewings that feed on thrips.

From Seattle Times

The brilliant white blooms with their hot yellow stamens emerge from the soil without competition and become beacons for impatient, flower-starved suitors like still cold-clumsy bumble bees, syrphid flies, butterflies, moths and beetles.

From New York Times

They attract bumblebees, sweat bees and syrphid flies.

From New York Times