flea: Meaning and Definition of

flea

Pronunciation: (flē), [key]
— n.
  1. any of numerous small, wingless bloodsucking insects of the order Siphonaptera, parasitic upon mammals and birds and noted for their ability to leap.
  2. either of two common fleas of the genus Ctenocephalides, the very small, black C. felisor the similar but larger C. canisboth of which infest cats, dogs, and occasionally humans.
  3. any of various small beetles and crustaceans that leap like a flea or swim in a jumpy manner, as the water flea and beach flea.
  4. The next time he shows his face around here he'll get a flea in his ear.
    1. a disconcerting rebuke or rebuff:The next time he shows his face around here he'll get a flea in his ear.
    2. a broad hint.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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