Wiktionary:Word of the day/2022/June 22

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gadfly n

Any dipterous (“two-winged”) insect or fly of the family Oestridae (commonly known as a botfly) or Tabanidae (horsefly), noted for irritating animals by buzzing about them, and biting them to suck their blood; a gadbee. (figuratively, also attributively) A person or thing that irritates or instigates. (specifically) A person who upsets the status quo by posing novel or upsetting questions, or attempts to stimulate innovation by being an irritant. Synonym of gadabout (“a person who restlessly moves from place to place, seeking amusement or the companionship of others”) (derogatory, slang) A person who takes without giving back; a bloodsucker. Insect Week in the United Kingdom is from 20 to 26 June 2022; the event is organized annually by the Royal Entomological Society to highlight the importance of insects.

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