Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
fly-in-amber
noun
/ˈflaɪ ɪn ˈæm.bər/
Definition
An insect caught and preserved in amber, often used to refer to a fossilized specimen.
Examples
- The discovery of a fly-in-amber offers a glimpse into prehistoric ecosystems.
- In the museum, there was an impressive collection of fly-in-amber pieces.
- Scientists can learn a lot about ancient life from a fly-in-amber specimen.
Meaning
The term describes a phenomenon where an insect, like a fly, becomes trapped in amber, a fossilized tree resin. This process beautifully preserves the insect, allowing scientists to study it millions of years later.
Synonyms
- Insect fossil
- Amber specimen
- Prehistoric trap
