Flea
WordNet
noun
(1) Any wingless bloodsucking parasitic insect noted for ability to leap
WiktionaryText
Etymology 1
From , , from , from . Cognate with Dutch , German , Icelandic .
Noun
- A small, wingless, parasitic insect of the order Siphonaptera, renowned for its bloodsucking habits and jumping abilities.
Verb
-
- 1749, Henry Fielding, Tom Jones, Folio Society 1973, p. 74:
- In this Thwackum had the advantage; for while Square could only scarify the poor lad's reputation, he could flea his skin [...].
- 1749, Henry Fielding, Tom Jones, Folio Society 1973, p. 74: