Definition of Fly (meaning 1 of 2 — noun)
Quick Meaning of Fly
A tiny insect that lives around food and moves very fast.
Detailed Definition of Fly
A small insect with two wings, found almost everywhere.
How to Pronounce Fly
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Pronounced the same as the verb 'fly'.
Other Meanings of Fly
“Fly” has 2 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 1:
#2 Fly as a verb
To travel through the air, as birds and planes do.
fly high
Origin and Etymology of Fly
Old English 'fleoge', from verb 'fly' due to its flying ability.
How to Use Fly in a Sentence
Each example shows “fly” in the meaning “A tiny insect that lives around food and…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“A fly landed on the table during dinner.”
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“I swatted the fly with a newspaper.”
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“There was a fly buzzing around the kitchen.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Fly
Common Synonyms for Fly
Smart Synonyms for Fly — When to Use Each
- insect
- general scientific term for the organism
- pest
- when emphasizing unwanted presence
Common Collocations with Fly
These phrases pair with “fly” in everyday English:
- fruit fly
- housefly
- fly swatter
- swat a fly
Common Mistakes When Using Fly
Even fluent speakers slip up with “fly”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: There is a flies in the kitchen.
- ✓ Correct: There is a fly in the kitchen.
- Why: Singular noun needs singular article 'a', not plural 'flies'.
- ✗ Wrong: The flys are everywhere in summer.
- ✓ Correct: The flies are everywhere in summer.
- Why: Plural of 'fly' is 'flies', not 'flys'.
Other Forms of Fly
Frequently Asked Questions About Fly
What is the meaning of "Fly"?
A tiny insect that lives around food and moves very fast.
How do you pronounce "Fly"?
The IPA is /flaɪ/. Pronounced the same as the verb 'fly'.
What part of speech is "Fly"?
"Fly" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Fly"?
Common synonyms include insect, pest, fruit fly.
How do you use "Fly" in a sentence?
For example: "A fly landed on the table during dinner."