Firefly
/ˈfaɪərflaɪ/
Definitions
A nocturnal beetle, also called a lightning bug, that emits a soft, intermittent light from its abdomen.
/ˈfaɪərflaɪ/
A nocturnal beetle that glows
We watched the fireflies blink in the meadow as the sun set.
💡 Simply: A firefly is like a tiny bug that has its own built-in flashlight! They blink at night to say hello or to find a friend.
👶 For kids: A firefly is a bug that can make its own light! It's like a little glow-in-the-dark insect.
More Examples
The firefly's bioluminescence is a fascinating natural phenomenon.
The children collected fireflies in a jar, admiring their glowing lights.
How It's Used
"Children love to catch fireflies in jars during summer evenings."
"The poet described the fireflies as tiny stars dancing in the twilight."
From "fire" and "fly," due to the insect's bioluminescence. The term originated in the late 17th century.
Historically, fireflies have been associated with magic, fairies, and the beauty of the night.