flea

flea · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A small wingless jumping insect that feeds on the blood of mammals and birds.

  2. 2.

    (informal) Something small or insignificant.

Forms

plural: fleas

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    flea market — an open-air market selling secondhand goods
  • •
    flea-bitten — shabby or rundown
  • •
    send someone off with a flea in their ear — to dismiss someone sharply
  • •
    as fit as a flea — in excellent health

Related words

See also: fleas, insect, pest
Synonyms: parasite, pest

Etymology

From Old English flea ("flea"), from Proto-Germanic flauhaz, related to Old High German floh and Old Norse flo.