Learn about the difference between the homophones: flee and flea

Definitions

flee

Flee is a verb that means to run away from a place or situation of danger.

Example

The robbers fled the scene before the police arrived.

Example

We need to flee this area before the storm hits.

flea

Flea is a noun that refers to a small, wingless insect that feeds on the blood of mammals and birds. It can also be used as a verb meaning to get rid of fleas.

Example

My dog has fleas and I need to give him a bath.

Example

I need to flea-proof my house before my guests arrive.

Tips To Remember the Differences

Here are a few tips to easily distinguish the difference between these words while keeping in mind the description we've provided:

- To remember the difference between these two words, think of the letter 'e' in flee as standing for 'escape', which is what you do when you flee from danger. - For flea, think of the 'ea' as standing for 'each animal', since fleas feed on the blood of each animal they infest.