as in nuisance
one who is obnoxiously annoying
the journalist was known as a gadfly for exposing hypocrisy in politics
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Recent Examples of gadfly
Like any gadfly, Kennedy’s willingness to challenge institutions and conventional wisdom has sometimes led him to question things that needed questioning, not least during the Covid era’s riot of hubris and deceit in the public health sector.
—
The Editors, National Review, 29 Jan. 2025
Keith Turner, along with political gadfly Margaret Carrasco, filed objections to her candidacy petitions last month.
—Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2025
When Zeus took a liking to princess Io, Hera turned her into a heifer, then sent a gadfly – like a horse fly – to sting her constantly.
—Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 20 Jan. 2025
Also trailing on the ballot were Jack Potter and political gadfly Margaret Carrasco.
—Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gadfly
The Editors, National Review, 29 Jan. 2025
Keith Turner, along with political gadfly Margaret Carrasco, filed objections to her candidacy petitions last month.
—Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2025
When Zeus took a liking to princess Io, Hera turned her into a heifer, then sent a gadfly – like a horse fly – to sting her constantly.
—Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 20 Jan. 2025
Also trailing on the ballot were Jack Potter and political gadfly Margaret Carrasco.
—Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gadfly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gadfly
Noun
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While the Black Series trailers are no longer a problem for City of Industry and Los Angeles County authorities, Wildomar officials say the trailers are now a nuisance for them.—
Nathan Solis,
Los Angeles Times,
17 Apr. 2025
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Both communities have spotlighted the importance of responsible tourism, where travelers are respectful and supportive of the local community, without being a nuisance or irresponsible.—
Michael Cappetta,
Travel + Leisure,
17 Apr. 2025
Noun
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They were likely introduced to Europe for pest control, the scientists said.—
Brie Stimson,
FOXNews.com,
2 May 2025
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For questions about gardening, plant pests or diseases, call 415-473-4204 from 9 a.m. to noon, and 1 to 4 p.m. weekdays, bring in samples or pictures to 1682 Novato Blvd., Suite 150B, Novato, or email helpdesk@marinmg.org.—
Martha Proctor,
Mercury News,
1 May 2025
Noun
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This, predictably, doesn’t go over well with Ellie, who refuses to take the assignment and mockingly shouts about her secret Cordyceps immunity to Tommy’s annoyance.—
Keith Phipps,
Vulture,
14 Apr. 2025
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Well, this wasn't the only instance of Scheffler's annoyance affecting him.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
Newsweek,
22 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Gadfly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gadfly. Accessed 14 May. 2025.
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