gadfly Definition
- 1a person who annoys or criticizes others in order to provoke them into action
- 2a fly that bites livestock
Using gadfly: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gadfly" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was a gadfly to the administration, always criticizing their policies and decisions.
Example
The activists were like gadflies, constantly pushing for change.
Example
The cow was being bothered by a gadfly.
gadfly Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for gadfly
Antonyms for gadfly
- peacemaker
- mediator
Phrases with gadfly
Example
The journalist's articles stung like a gadfly, forcing the government to take action.
a person who persistently annoys or criticizes someone in a higher position of power or authority
Example
The senator was seen as a gadfly on the horse, constantly criticizing the president's policies.
Example
The unexpected rain was a gadfly in the ointment for our picnic plans.
Origins of gadfly
from Old English 'gæd', meaning 'spike' + 'flēoge', meaning 'fly'
Summary: gadfly in Brief
'Gadfly' [gad-flahy] refers to a person who persistently annoys or criticizes others in order to provoke them into action. It can also refer to a type of fly that bites livestock. The term is often used in political contexts, exemplified by 'He was a gadfly to the administration, always criticizing their policies and decisions.' Phrases like 'sting like a gadfly' and 'gadfly on the horse' further illustrate the term's usage.