Boat bug \Boat" bug`\ (Zo["o]l.) An aquatic hemipterous insect of the genus {Notonecta}; -- so called from swimming on its back, which gives it the appearance of a little boat. Called also {boat fly}, {boat insect}, {boatman}, and {water boatman}.
boat bug n : carnivorous aquatic bug having paddle-like hind legs [syn: {water boatman}]