backswimmer

[ bak-swim-er ]

/ ˈbækˌswɪm ər /

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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.

QUIZ

QUIZ YOURSELF ON "IS" VS. "ARE"

"Is" it time for a new quiz? "Are" you ready? Then prove your excellent skills on using "is" vs. "are."

Question 1 of 7

IS and ARE are both forms of which verb?

have

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Also called boat bug.

Origin of backswimmer

First recorded in 1860–65; back¹ + swimmer

Words nearby backswimmer

back street, backstretch, backstroke, backstroker, backswept, backswimmer, backswing, backsword, backswordman, back talk, back the wrong horse