bluebottle fly

American  

noun

1. any of several iridescent blue blow flies, especially those of the genus Calliphora, some of which are parasitic on domestic animals.

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Etymology

Origin of bluebottle fly

First recorded in 1710–20

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bluebottle fly

Philip Marlowe's latest adventure began on a lovely summer day when Marlowe had nothing better to do than to stalk a bluebottle fly with a swatter.

From Time Magazine Archive

In Mrs. Timson "rage . . . fluttered wildly, like a bluebottle fly."

From Time Magazine Archive

A later observation: that bone infections could be cured by the use of bluebottle fly maggots.

From Time Magazine Archive

Valentine began to have a creepy feeling up and down his back, for he didn’t relish the idea of being caught in a spider’s web like a bluebottle fly.

From Little Mr. Thimblefinger and His Queer Country by Herford, Oliver

Yes, yes, Hudelist, believe me, Bonaparte is a huge bluebottle fly, which drives all Europe mad.

From Andreas Hofer by Mühlbach, L. (Luise)