deerfly (Chrysops suavis)
A species of horsefly; the Japanese name literally means 'blind horsefly'. Used in biological and everyday contexts.
Deerflies are often seen in summer.
A deerfly bite is very painful.
Katakana spelling is common for this insect name; usually written in kana.
Kanji spelling exists but is rarely used; the word is usually written in kana.
Compound of めくら (blind) and あぶ (horsefly). The exact reason for 'blind' is uncertain, but it may refer to the fly's behavior or appearance.