Definitions

1. noun

A person who habitually meddles or criticizes in an annoying way; a persistent critic.

“The politician’s opponent became a gadfly to the government, constantly questioning their policies.”

2. noun

A type of horsefly that bites cattle, causing them to become irritable and restless.

“The farmer tried to find a way to keep the gadflies from bothering his livestock.”

3. verb

To tease or provoke someone persistently, often in a playful or annoying way.

“The children were gadflying each other, trying to get a reaction out of their sibling.”