True fly
- Pronunciation
- /troo flahy/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- True fly
- Plural
- True flies
Definition
Insects of the order Diptera, characterized by having a single pair of wings and halteres, which are modified hindwings used for balance.
Etymology
From Old English 'fleoge', meaning 'fly' and 'true' to distinguish them from other flying insects that are not in the Diptera order.
Example
The housefly is a common example of a true fly found in many households around the world.
Synonyms
- Dipteran
Related Terms
Usage Notes
True flies include species such as houseflies, mosquitoes, and fruit flies. They are distinguished from other insects colloquially called 'flies' by having only one pair of functional wings.