1. Plural of naiad; in Greek and Roman mythology, water nymphs that inhabit rivers, springs, and streams.
Usage: mythology; classical
2. Plural of naiad; aquatic insect larvae, especially those of dragonflies and mayflies, that live in water.
Usage: zoology; entomology

Examples

• In Homer's epics, the naiades were said to guard the freshwater sources of ancient Greece.
• The ancient Greeks believed naiades would protect travelers who respected the rivers and springs.
• Biologists studied the naiades of the dragonfly to understand their development in freshwater habitats.
• The naiades of mayflies are an important food source for fish in streams.
• Classical art often depicted naiades as beautiful maidens emerging from fountains and waterfalls.