Meaning & Definition of word "Fly"

Fly

/flaɪ/

noun:

  • 1. a small, winged insect of the order Diptera.
    • Example: A fly landed on my picnic.
  • 2. a device or mechanism that allows something to move quickly, especially in the air.
    • Example: The fly of the zipper was stuck.
  • 3. a part of clothing that covers the opening of trousers.
    • Example: Make sure to zip up your fly before leaving the restroom.

verb:

  • 1. to move through the air using wings.
    • Example: Birds fly south for the winter.
  • 2. to travel by air, especially in an airplane or spacecraft.
    • Example: We will fly to New York tomorrow.
  • 3. to ascend rapidly.
    • Example: The rocket will fly into orbit within minutes.

adjective:

  • 1. slang term meaning stylish or impressive.
    • Example: Those shoes are really fly!

Etymology

Old English 'flēogan', from Proto-Germanic 'fleugan' (cf. German 'fliegen', Dutch 'vliegen').

Common Phrases and Expressions

fly high:

To be successful or achieve great things.

fly by the seat of your pants:

To do something without planning, relying on instinct or improvisation.

when pigs fly:

A way of saying something will never happen.

Related Words

flight:

The act of flying or traveling through the air.

flyer:

A small printed advertisement or handbill.

aviation:

The operation and design of aircraft.

Slang Meanings of fly

Meaning: To be stylish, cool, or impressive in appearance or action.

Example Sentence: That new jacket is really fly! You look great.

Meaning: To leave quickly or to escape.

Example Sentence: We should fly before anyone notices we're gone!