biting midge

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Word: Biting Midge

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A biting midge is a very small insect that has two wings. These insects are known for their ability to bite and suck blood from mammals (like humans and animals) and birds.

Usage Instructions: You would use "biting midge" when talking about this specific type of insect, especially in contexts related to nature, outdoor activities, or pest control.

Example Sentence: "When we went camping near the lake, we had to use bug spray to protect ourselves from the biting midges."

Advanced Usage:

In scientific contexts, "biting midge" might be referred to by its family name, Ceratopogonidae. Researchers studying the impact of these insects on wildlife or human health might use the term in a more technical manner.

Word Variants:

• Bite (verb): The action of the midge when it punctures the skin to draw blood.
• Midge (noun): Refers to the insect itself, which may not always refer specifically to those that bite.

Different Meanings:

• The word "midge" can also refer to other small flies that may not bite. In a general sense, it can mean any small or insignificant thing.

Synonyms:

• No-see-ums (another common name for certain biting midges)
• Sandflies (though this can refer to different insects)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "biting midge," but you might use phrases related to annoyance, such as "a pesky little midge," to describe something bothersome.

Summary:

A biting midge is a tiny insect that can cause discomfort through its bites.

Academic

Noun

1. minute two-winged insect that sucks the blood of mammals and birds and other insects

Synonyms

• punkie
• punky
• punkey
• no-see-um