How Do You Spell FLEA?

Pronunciation: [flˈiː] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "flea" is quite unique. It contains two vowels ("e" and "a") that create a diphthong sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /fliː/, with the two vertical lines above the "i" representing the long "ee" sound. This tiny insect is known for being agile and hard to catch, much like its unique spelling. Although short in length, the word "flea" packs a lot of sound and character, making it a fun word to spell and say.

FLEA Meaning and Definition

  1. A flea is a small, wingless insect belonging to the order Siphonaptera. With a flattened body and strong hind legs adapted for jumping, fleas are known for their ability to quickly move from host to host, particularly mammals. They are ectoparasites that feed exclusively on the blood of their hosts, which may include humans, pets, livestock, and wild animals.

    Measuring approximately 1-4 millimeters in length, fleas have a hard exoskeleton that is typically dark brown in color. They possess long, needle-like mouthparts, called stylets, used for piercing the skin to extract blood. Fleas also have specialized structures on their legs, such as sharp claws and spines, which aid in holding onto their hosts' fur or feathers.

    Fleas undergo a complete metamorphosis, progressing through four distinct stages: eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. After mating on a host, female fleas lay hundreds of tiny white eggs that easily fall off into the environment, such as bedding or carpets. These eggs hatch into larvae that are worm-like and semi-transparent, primarily feeding on organic debris and adult flea excrement. The larvae then spin silk cocoons and develop into pupae, which are wrapped in a protective casing. Following this stage, adults emerge from the pupae, ready to search for a host to feed on.

    Fleas are known vectors for various diseases, including the bubonic plague, murine typhus, and cat scratch disease. Additionally, their bites can cause intense itching, allergic reactions, and dermatitis. Flea control measures often include regular vacuuming, washing bedding and applying insecticides to eliminate fleas from the environment, while pet owners may use flea collars or administer spot-on

  2. An insect of the genus Pulex. The common f. which attacks man is Pulex irritans.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. A small insect of a very dark brown colour, surprisingly nimble, and very troublesome by its bite.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for FLEA *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for FLEA

Etymology of FLEA

The word "flea" originated from the Old English term "flēah", which can be traced back to an earlier Germanic term "flauhaz" or "flauja" in Old High German. The origins of the word are uncertain beyond this point, but some theories suggest a possible connection to the Proto-Indo-European root *plou-, meaning "flee". This root is also linked to the Latin word "pluo", meaning "to flow", which may indicate the flea's agile and quick movements. However, the exact etymology remains uncertain.

Idioms with the word FLEA

  • flea in the ear The idiom "flea in the ear" refers to an annoying or nagging feeling, thought, or suggestion that persists or troubles someone. It implies a persistent idea or concern that stays in one's mind, just like a flea constantly buzzing or bothering around one's ear. Additionally, it can imply a piece of advice or criticism that keeps bothering or irritating someone.
  • a flea in ear The idiom "a flea in ear" refers to a persistent, nagging feeling or doubt that causes anxiety or unease. It typically describes a situation where someone is troubled by suspicions, worries, or doubts that continuously bother or unsettle them.
  • flea in one's ear, a The idiom "a flea in one's ear" refers to a feeling of unease or annoyance caused by someone or something. It often implies being persistently pestered or bothered by someone's words, ideas, or suggestions.
  • not hurt a flea The idiom "not hurt a flea" means that a person is extremely gentle, kind, or nonviolent, and would never harm or cause any distress to even the smallest and most harmless creatures, such as fleas. It emphasizes the idea of a person's innate kindness and aversion to violence.
  • send away with a flea in ear The idiom "send away with a flea in ear" refers to when someone is sent off or dismissed, typically after being scolded or reprimanded, leaving them feeling humiliated, ashamed, or vexed. It involves being given a strong message or rebuke that lingers in their mind, similar to the irritation caused by a flea in one's ear.
  • a flea in (one's) ear The idiom "a flea in (one's) ear" typically refers to giving someone a sharp rebuke, a strong warning, or strong advice in order to correct their behavior or encourage them to take action. It implies delivering a message in a forceful or determined manner.
  • send someone away with a flea in their ear The idiom "send someone away with a flea in their ear" means to dismiss or rebuke someone firmly and severely, often in a scolding or admonishing manner. It implies conveying a sharp criticism or strong reprimand to the person being sent away, leaving them feeling chastised or chastened.
  • flea market The idiom "flea market" refers to an open-air market where second-hand items, antiques, and various goods are sold by multiple vendors. It typically involves a mix of unique and inexpensive items, and the market often takes place on a regular basis, such as weekly or monthly.
  • flea in one's ear The idiom "flea in one's ear" refers to a feeling of discomfort or agitation caused by a persistent or annoying thought or idea. It can also imply receiving a stern or forceful admonishment or strong hint from someone.
  • fit as a flea The idiom "fit as a flea" typically means to be in excellent physical health and vitality. It implies a state of being energetic, active, and robust, much like a flea known for its constant jumping and agility.
  • be (as) fit as a flea, at be (as) fit as a fiddle The idiom "be (as) fit as a flea" or "be (as) fit as a fiddle" refers to a person being in excellent physical health and very fit. It implies that the person is energetic, strong, and agile, just like a flea or a perfectly tuned musical instrument (fiddle). This idiom is used to emphasize someone's overall good health and vitality.
  • a flea in your ear The idiom "a flea in your ear" refers to giving someone a strong hint, suggestion, or criticism, often in a forceful or abrupt manner to convey annoyance, dissatisfaction, or to provoke action. It is used metaphorically to depict the idea of a bothersome or irritating presence, like a flea, that compels the person to take notice and respond.
  • send (one) away with a flea in (one's) ear The idiom "send (one) away with a flea in (one's) ear" means to dismiss or rebuke someone strongly, usually in a confrontational or indignant manner. It implies sending someone away feeling irritated, embarrassed, or humiliated due to a scolding or reprimand. The phrase often suggests that the person being rebuked has been caught in some wrongdoing or has expressed a disrespectful attitude.
  • flea in his ear The idiom "flea in his ear" refers to the act of giving someone a strong hint, warning, or reprimand, typically in a forceful or annoying manner. It suggests that someone has been bothered or irritated by something they were told or reminded of, as if a flea has been buzzing in their ear causing discomfort or annoyance.
  • send sb away with a flea in their ear To send someone away with a flea in their ear means to dismiss or reject them while also scolding or reprimanding them vigorously. It implies that the person is being admonished or chastised severely before being sent away.
  • with a flea in your ear The idiom "with a flea in your ear" means to be scolded, reprimanded, or given a sharp rebuke by someone.
  • not hurt a fly or flea The idiom "not hurt a fly or flea" refers to someone who is extremely gentle and kind, incapable of causing harm or behaving aggressively towards even the smallest and most insignificant creatures. It implies that the person is nonviolent and harmless in their actions and intentions.
  • flea-bit·ten "Of poor quality or badly treated; shabby or run-down."

Similar spelling words for FLEA

Plural form of FLEA is FLEAS

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