noun

midge

MIJ/mɪdʒ/

A tiny two-winged fly.

The tiny midge rests on a grass blade.

An enlarged natural-history view of one tiny midge perched on the edge of a grass blade, with a small contextual view of the same blade and insect establishing its minute size.
Etymology

Old English mycg already meant “gnat,” so the small-fly sense continues an old insect name. Some scholars suggest an origin imitating humming, but that deeper connection is uncertain.

In context

Redland City Council2:23
to protect yourself from biting midge so the easiest things to do or wear long trousers long sleeve shirts
Treating Biting Midge - Interview with an Entomologist

More examples

  • Several midges hovered nearby.
  • A midge flew past.
  • The enlarged drawing showed the midge's wings.

Forms

midge · midges

Similar words

gnat
A broad common term for various tiny flies.
mosquito
A different fly, often larger with a long feeding mouthpart.