backswimmer

[ bak-swim-er ]
/ ˈbækˌswɪm ər /

noun

any of numerous predaceous aquatic hemipterous insects, of the family Notonectidae, that swim on their backs, and may inflict a painful bite if handled.

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a creature, variously described as a serpent, lizard, or dragon, said to kill by its breath or look.
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Also called boat bug.

Origin of backswimmer

First recorded in 1860–65; back1 + swimmer

Words nearby backswimmer

backstreet, backstretch, backstroke, backstroker, backswept, backswimmer, backswing, backsword, backswordman, backtrack, backup
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2020