horn fly

noun

1. a small bloodsucking fly, Haematobia irritans, that is a pest, especially of cattle.

Word History and Origins

Origin of horn fly¹

An Americanism dating back to 1700–10

Example Sentences

Clouds of horn flies were wiped clean from cattle herds.

From New York Times

Increased horn fly numbers were reported by Hunt and Titus counties.

From Washington Times

Poisons targeting horn flies, tape flies and roundworms can indirectly hurt beetles, so applying pesticides and dewormers in the early spring when beetles are less active can alleviate some of the impact.

From New York Times

There's no further use in tryin', For the horn flies from your grip, p.

From Project Gutenberg

They quickly get rid of manure, recycle nutrients and keep pests like horn flies in check because they are in direct competition for resources.

From New York Times