cleg

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/klɛɡ/

Definitions

• A large horsefly, particularly one that is a nuisance to livestock.
• In some regions, the term refers to a type of biting insect, often used to describe a biting fly similar to a horsefly.

Usage Examples

• The clegs were swarming around the cattle, biting them relentlessly.
• We had to keep the animals inside during the summer to avoid the clegs.
• After the long hike, she noticed several cleg bites on her legs.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English word "clegge" or "clec," which is thought to have come from Old Norse "kleggi," meaning a type of biting fly. The term has roots in the regional dialects of Scotland and Northern England.

Synonyms

• Horsefly
• Bitten fly
• Stable fly

Antonyms

• Non-biting fly
• Fruit fly
• Pollinator

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• Scottish English: /klɛɡ/
• British English: /klɛɡ/
• American English: /klɛɡ/

Historical Usage

The word "cleg" has been in use since the Middle Ages, primarily in Northern England and Scotland, where it was used to describe the biting horsefly. It was historically used in farming communities, as the cleg was a significant nuisance to both livestock and humans. Over time, its use became more widespread, though it remains a regional term in some areas.

Cultural Nuances

In many rural communities, especially in the UK, clegs are a familiar yet unwelcome part of the summer months. The fly is often associated with the discomforts of working outdoors, particularly with livestock. In contrast, in areas without much farming, the term may be less well-known, and people might simply refer to the insect as a horsefly or biting fly.

More Information

Clegs, as a species of biting flies, are particularly well-known for their tendency to bite livestock, such as horses and cattle, and can also affect humans, though they are less likely to spread disease than other types of flies. However, their bites can be painful and cause irritation. In agriculture, control of clegs is often necessary to ensure the well-being of livestock, as excessive bites can lead to stress in animals. Natural and chemical repellents are used in farming to keep these pests at bay.