A gadfly refers to both a type of irritating fly that bites or annoys livestock, such as horseflies or botflies, and metaphorically, a person who persistently provokes or criticizes others, often to challenge the status quo or incite change. The metaphorical use stems from ancient Greece, where Socrates was described as a gadfly for stirring up and questioning Athenian society to provoke thought and action.
Gadfly as an Insect
- It is a term for flies from families like Oestridae (botflies) and Tabanidae (horseflies), known for buzzing around and biting animals to suck blood, causing irritation.
Gadfly as a Metaphor for a Person
- It describes someone who annoys others through persistent questioning, criticism, or challenging authority, often with the intention of stimulating change or action.
- The origin of this metaphor comes from Plato’s depiction of Socrates acting like a gadfly to the Athenian state, provoking its citizens and leaders to self-examination.
