dragon-fly

A dragon-fly lands on a green reed near the pond.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • An insect: "dragon-fly" refers to a large, predatory insect of the order Odonata, characterized by a long slender body, two pairs of transparent wings, and large compound eyes. It is typically found near water and is known for its swift, agile flight.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • A bright blue dragon-fly hovered over the pond. (The insect was flying steadily over the water.)
  • Children love to watch dragon-flies dart across the garden. (They observe the insect's quick movements.)

Advanced Usage

• "dragon-fly" as a symbol: In some cultures, the dragon-fly represents change, adaptability, or transformation due to its life cycle from nymph to adult.
  • The dragon-fly is often seen as a symbol of self-realisation in Japanese poetry. (It signifies personal growth.)

Variants and Related Words

• Dragonfly (n): a common alternative spelling of "dragon-fly" (often written as one word).
  • A dragonfly landed on the leaf. (The insect rested on the plant.)
• Dragonfly nymph (n): the aquatic larval stage of a dragon-fly.
  • The dragonfly nymph lives underwater for several months. (The immature insect develops in water.)

Synonyms

• Damselfly: a similar insect, but with a thinner body and wings held together when at rest.
  • The damselfly is often mistaken for a dragon-fly. (They are related but distinct species.)
• Odonate: a scientific term for any member of the order Odonata, including dragon-flies.
  • Odonates are important predators in aquatic ecosystems. (This group includes dragon-flies.)

Phrasal Verbs

Related Idioms

• "Dragon-fly in amber": a rare or preserved specimen, often used metaphorically to describe something frozen in time.
  • The fossil was like a dragon-fly in amber, preserved perfectly. (It was an ancient, unchanged artifact.)