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Birds: meaning, definitions and examples

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birds

 

[ bɜrdz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

animal class

Birds are warm-blooded vertebrates characterized by feathers, beaks, and the laying of hard-shelled eggs. They belong to the class Aves and are known for their ability to fly, although some species are flightless. Birds can be found in a wide range of habitats and exhibit diverse behaviors.

Synonyms

avian, feathered creature, fowl.

Examples of usage

  • Swans are graceful birds that can be seen gliding across lakes.
  • Many birds migrate south for the winter to find warmer climates.
  • The parrot is a colorful bird known for its ability to mimic speech.
  • Owls are nocturnal birds that are often associated with wisdom.

Etymology

The word 'bird' has its origins in the Old English term 'brid', which referred to a young bird or chick. Its use has evolved over time, with Middle English seeing the term gain broader application to include all kinds of winged creatures. The Proto-Germanic root is reconstructed as *burdiz, which is also associated with words in other Germanic languages like Old High German 'burd' and Dutch 'vogel'. The term has maintained its general meaning throughout the centuries, emphasizing the avian characteristics such as feathers and the act of flight. In various cultures, birds have symbolized freedom, beauty, and the connection between the earthly and the spiritual realms.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,004, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.