fungus gnat

noun

: any of various small dipteran flies (families Mycetophilidae and Sciaridae) resembling mosquitoes and having larvae that feed on fungi and decaying organic matter

Examples of fungus gnat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Too much water and insufficient drainage can cause a fungal disease; repotting a plant and using the wrong potting mix can introduce pests such as fungus gnats. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 10 Aug. 2026 Spraying adult fungus gnats is a short-term solution that is only temporary. — Leah Chester-Davis, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026 Watering houseplants with rice water can cause problems with mold, ants, and fungus gnats. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 June 2026 Finish off with a layer of small pebbles for a finished look and to keep away fungus gnats. — Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for fungus gnat

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fungus gnat was in 1862

Rhymes for fungus gnat

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Browse Nearby Words

fungus garden
fungus gnat
fungus root
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Cite this Entry

“Fungus gnat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fungus%20gnat. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on fungus gnat

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fungus gnat

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