Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • noun The common name of Ophrys muscifera, from the resemblance of the flowers to flies.

Etymologies

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Examples

  • Yet in many of its close allies insect agency is absolutely required; but in one of these, the fly-orchis, comparatively very little seed is produced, and self-fertilisation would therefore be advantageous to it.

    Darwinism (1889) Alfred Russel Wallace 1868

  • This article in the "Gardeners 'Chronicle" of June 9th, 1860, page 528, begins with a request that observations should be made on the manner of fertilisation in the bee-and in the fly-orchis.), as it involves a curious point, and as you cared about my paper on kidney beans; but as you are so busy, I will not.

    More Letters of Charles Darwin — Volume 1 Charles Darwin 1845

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