dragonfly

word

/dɹˈæɡənfɫˌaɪ/
DRA-guhn-fly
/dɹˈæɡənflˌaɪ/
DRA-guhn-fly

Definition

A dragonfly is a large insect with a long, thin body, two pairs of big transparent wings, and large eyes. It is often seen flying quickly near water.

Usage & Nuances

'Dragonfly' is a noun and only refers to the insect—do not confuse with 'damselfly,' which is similar but slimmer and folds its wings when resting. Used in both scientific and everyday contexts. Plural is 'dragonflies.' Rarely used figuratively.

Example Sentences

The wings of a dragonfly are clear and shiny.

basic

A dragonfly zipped past my face while I was fishing.

natural

Did you know a dragonfly can eat hundreds of mosquitoes a day?

natural

When the sun sets, you can see dragonflies dancing above the water.

natural

The dragonfly sat on a green leaf.

basic

I saw a blue dragonfly by the river.

basic