Word
flies
US/ˈfɫaɪz/
UK/flˈaɪz/
Definitions
01insects
A2 · Elementary Countable noun
n. more than one fly (the small insect with two wings).
n. the plural form of the common dipterous insect.
“There were several flies buzzing around the fruit bowl in the kitchen.”
“The biologist observed how the flies were attracted to the decaying organic matter at the edge of the pond.”
02trouser opening
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun British English
n. the opening at the front of a pair of trousers, usually closed with a zip or buttons.
n. an opening at the crotch of a pair of trousers, typically fastened with a slide fastener or buttons.
“He checked his flies in the mirror before walking onto the stage.”
“The tailor ensured the flies were perfectly aligned with the waistband to maintain the garment's sharp silhouette.”
Usage
Often used in the singular 'fly' in American English, while 'flies' is common in British English.
03theatre equipment
C2 · Proficiency Plural noun Theater Technical
n. the space above a theatre stage where lights and scenery are kept.
n. the area above a stage where scenery, curtains, and lighting equipment are suspended and manipulated.
“The crew lowered the heavy painted backdrop from the flies.”
“From the flies, the stagehands had a bird's-eye view of the actors as the mechanical rigging began to descend for the final act.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Some flies, including the common drone fly (Eristalis tenax), have been found to travel over 100 kilometres carrying pollen of at least eight plant species.” “Many species of flies migrate for hundreds or thousands of kilometres, often in vast numbers, a review of the evidence shows.” Idioms
In Literature
Original artwork created for englishreference.com.
Lord of the Flies · 1954-09-18 · Allegory, dystopian fiction
- Author:
- William Golding
William Golding’s 1954 novel follows a group of British schoolboys stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. As their attempts at self-governance fail, the title refers to a severed pig's head that attracts swarms of these insects, symbolizing the decay of order and the rise of primitive instincts. The story explores the dark side of human nature when societal rules disappear.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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