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

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

From Time Magazine Archive

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

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

From Time Magazine Archive

The long-drawn cawing of a crow on the opposite hillside, and the buzzing of a bluebottle fly who had sought retreat in the cavern, had a like effect, and he felt himself falling asleep.

From The Luck of Roaring Camp and Other Tales With Condensed Novels, Spanish and American Legends, and Earlier Papers by Harte, Bret

Hearne relates that they will eat with a relish whole handfuls of maggots that have been produced in meat by the eggs of the bluebottle fly!

From Pioneers in Canada by Wallcousins, E.