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Glite Dictionary
Oestrus

Oestrus

9.9
A kind of fly whose young live inside sheep and can harm them
  • noun
  • /ˈɛstrəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Oestrus
  • The veterinarian explained that oestrus is crucial for understanding the breeding cycle of sheep.

Examples

  • I am uncertain because I think the status of woman is honorable and significant insofar as she is man's instrument of pleasure, experienced at oestrus, mistress of the night, ripe with magical properties, more passionate than the dawn.

    Fiction book (1991)

  • During oestrus, female sheep display increased vocalizations and restlessness as they attract potential mates.

  • Farmers observe the signs of oestrus in their flock to know the best time for breeding.

Synonyms

genus Oestrus
vsOestrus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of sheep botflies whose larvae live as parasites in sheep

is the general genus known for sheep botflies whose larvae are internal parasites

Compounds

genus Oestrus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of sheep botflies whose larvae live as parasites in sheep

Oestrus ovis
  • Specialized
9.9

A small fly whose young live inside sheep's noses and harm them

Surface Forms

Oestrus singular
Oestruses plural

Etymology

Oestrus comes from an old Greek word oistros, meaning 'gadfly' or 'frenzy', a word for a small fly that stings or a sudden strong urge. These botflies irritate and sometimes live inside sheep, so the name fits their habit of causing trouble in animals.