(n) any of various tiny insects whose larvae are parasites on eggs and larvae of other insects; many are beneficial in destroying injurious insects, Syn.chalcid wasp, chalcid, chalcidfly
[ From Gr. chalko`s copper; in allusion to its metallic colors. ] (Zool.) One of a numerous family of hymenopterous insects (Chalcididæ. Many are gallflies, others are parasitic on insects. [ 1913 Webster ]