Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FLEA, n. [Sax. flea; G. floh; D. vloo; Scot. flech; Ice. floc; from Sax. fleogan, to fly. See Flee and Fly.]

An insect of the genus Pulex. It has two eyes, and six feet; the feelers are like threads; the rostrum is inflected, setaceous, and armed with a sting. The flea is remarkable for its agility, leaping to a surprising distance, and its bite is very troublesome.