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

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

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

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

From Time Magazine Archive

"I do not believe that it is a bluebottle fly," exclaimed the emperor.

From Andreas Hofer by Mühlbach, L. (Luise)

Piles upon piles of manuscripts had he written upon the forms and classification of the bluebottle fly.

From Kate Coventry An Autobiography by Whyte-Melville, G. J.