syrphid

American  

[sur-fid] / ˈsɜr fɪd /

Also syrphian

noun

1. syrphid fly.

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adjective

1. belonging or pertaining to the family Syrphidae.

syrphid British  

/ ˈsɜːfɪd /

noun

1. any dipterous fly of the family Syrphidae, typically having a coloration mimicking that of certain bees and wasps: includes the hover flies

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Etymology

Origin of syrphid

1890–95; < New Latin Syrphidae family name, equivalent to Syrph ( us ) a genus (< Greek sýrphos gnat) + New Latin -idae -id ²

Example Sentences

Gardeners have often looked to companion plants for pest control, as well-matched partners can attract natural enemies like syrphid flies and parasitic wasps to act as biological-control agents.

From New York Times

Chemical sprays give only partial control and are lethal to beneficial insects such as lady beetles, syrphid flies and lacewings that feed on thrips.

From Seattle Times

The brilliant white blooms with their hot yellow stamens emerge from the soil without competition and become beacons for impatient, flower-starved suitors like still cold-clumsy bumble bees, syrphid flies, butterflies, moths and beetles.

From New York Times

They attract bumblebees, sweat bees and syrphid flies.

From New York Times

Composite flowers offer some of the best floral rewards, and pollinators have taken notice: bumblebees, syrphid flies, honeybees.

From New York Times