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REFERENCE

butterflies

n.
US //ˈbətɝˌfɫaɪz// UK //bˈʌtəflˌaɪz// but·ter·flies
  1. 1 insects (n.)
    A1 Beginner Science

    insects with four large, often brightly coloured wings.

    plural form of the lepidopterous insect characterized by four broad wings covered in microscopic scales, typically active during the day.

    Example

    The children chased the colourful butterflies through the meadow all afternoon.

    Example

    Conservationists are concerned that the declining population of native butterflies indicates a broader collapse in the local ecosystem's health.
    • lepidoptera
  2. 2 nervous feeling (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    a nervous or excited feeling in your stomach before doing something important.

    a physical sensation of fluttering or slight nausea in the stomach caused by anxiety or excitement. Usually used in the phrase 'to have butterflies'.

    Example

    I always get butterflies in my stomach right before I have to give a presentation.

    Example

    Despite her years of experience on the professional stage, she still felt butterflies before every opening night performance.

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