gallinipper

[ gal-uh-nip-er ]

noun

, Informal.

1. any of various insects that sting or bite, especially a large American mosquito, Psorophora ciliata.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gallinipper¹

First recorded in 1675–85; of obscure origin; final element apparently assimilated to nipper

Example Sentences

The term is also applied to a large mosquito-like insect, called locally "gallinipper."

From Project Gutenberg

The Mississippi gallinipper is adolescent compared to the Troublesome mosquito.

From Project Gutenberg

The connection with the proboscis of the gallinipper is especially apt.

From Project Gutenberg

The largest kind of mosquito in the valley of the lower Mississippi is called the Gallinipper.

From Project Gutenberg

They tell a good story to show the superiority of the Gallinipper, over the ordinary Mosquito, in this wise.

From Project Gutenberg