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flies

Small winged insects of the order Diptera, often known for being pests. / To move through the air using wings or mechanical propulsion. / To operate an aircraft as a pilot. / To move or pass very quickly.

/flaɪz/

Intransitive VerbTransitive Verb[C] Countable
pl: fliespast: flewpp: flowning: flying

As a noun, the word evokes an image of annoyance, filth, or fragility. It is most often associated with pests and decay, carrying a negative connotation when referring to infestations.

In its literal verbal sense, it conveys effortless movement, speed, and liberation from gravity. While 'flying' as a pilot implies professional skill and control, the act of moving through the air suggests a state of suspension or transcendence.

When used metaphorically regarding time, it describes a subjective experience where the perceived passage of hours or days is accelerated, usually due to engagement or pleasure.

Refers to individual winged insects that can be counted, such as seeing three flies on a window pane.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is procrastinating on a term paper in the library while Leo is at home.
Chloe Smith

omg time flies when you're rotting in the library. i've done zero pages.

Chloe Smith
Leo Smith
Leo Smith

skill issue lol

💡
Chloe uses the idiom 'time flies' to express how quickly time passes despite her lack of productivity. Leo responds with 'skill issue', a common gaming-derived slang term used to mock someone's incompetence or failure.

Meanings

Noun

Small winged insects of the order Diptera, often known for being pests.

The fruit flies were swarming around the overripe bananas.

Intransitive Verb

To move through the air using wings or mechanical propulsion.

The eagle flies high above the mountain peaks.

Transitive Verb

To operate an aircraft as a pilot.

She flies commercial jets for a major international airline.

Intransitive Verb

To move or pass very quickly.

Time flies when you are having fun.

Etymology

Derived from the Old English flēogan, which stems from the Proto-Germanic fljugana. This root is linked to the Proto-Indo-European base pleu-, meaning to flow or fly, which also gave rise to the Greek pleōn and Latin fluere. The noun form evolved from the same root to describe the insect capable of such movement.

Related Words

Last Updated: May 2026Report an Error