Damselfly

/dˈæmsɪlflˌa‍ɪ/

/dˈæmsɪlflˌaɪ/

[noun]

Damselfly

[NOUN]

a slender winged insect similar to but smaller than a dragonfly, which folds its wings above its body while at rest

What is a "damselfly"?

A damselfly is a slender and delicate insect belonging to the order Odonata. They are closely related to dragonflies and are known for their graceful appearance. Damselflies have long, slender bodies and two pairs of intricately veined wings that are typically held parallel to the body when at rest. They are often found near freshwater habitats such as ponds, streams, and marshes. Damselflies are skilled fliers and agile hunters, preying on small insects in flight or even capturing them underwater. They play an important role in ecosystems as both predators and prey, and their presence adds beauty to natural environments.

Examples

1. The colors on this damselfly complement the cooler weather.

2. When mating, dragonflies and damselflies form their body into a heart shape.

3. There's Daniel Craig and his blue-eyed damselfly.

4. It’s the preferred breeding site for damselflies, whose nymphs are a common predator of crab larvae.

Nearby words