Birdlimed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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birdlimed
[ˈbɜrd.laɪmd ]
Definition
bird trapping
To have been covered or smeared with birdlime, a sticky substance used to catch birds. Birdlime is typically made from the bark of specific trees and is applied to branches or surfaces where birds perch.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The hunters birdlimed the branches to catch more birds.
- He accidentally birdlimed his hands while setting traps.
- The tree branches were carefully coated in birdlime as part of their strategy.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- Various cultures have used birdlime for centuries, showcasing traditional hunting methods in ancient societies.
- In some cultures, birdlime was a critical tool for survival, helping hunters secure food in the wild.
Literature
- The use of birdlime appears in Shakespeare's works, reflecting its common knowledge during the Elizabethan era.
- Authors often used the concept metaphorically to describe situations where individuals felt trapped or ensnared.
Nature and Ecology
- Birdlimed practices can impact bird populations by influencing hunting techniques and laws related to wildlife conservation.
- Some birds have developed awareness of traps and sticky substances, leading to changes in their behavior.
Modern Usage
- Today, the term is rarely used but can metaphorically describe situations where someone feels stuck in a difficult position.
- In modern literature and discussions, birdlimed illustrates entrapment in various contexts beyond literal bird trapping.
Origin of 'birdlimed'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated from the practice of covering twigs with a sticky substance made from lime to catch birds.
- In Middle English, ‘lime’ referred to the sticky mixture used by hunters, showcasing how language evolved with hunting techniques.
The term 'birdlime' originates from the Old English word 'bird' meaning a young fowl, combined with 'lime' which refers to the sticky substance derived from the bark of the holly tree among others. Historically, it has been used since ancient times for bird trapping. In medieval times, birdlime was a common method used by hunters and bird catchers to ensnare various species of birds, especially during the spring migration periods. The use of birdlime allowed for more efficient capturing without the need for nets or firearms. Over time, with advancements in trapping techniques and changes in hunting regulations, the use of birdlime has declined but remains a notable part of historical bird trapping practices.