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Corbie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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corbie

[ˈkɔːbi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird

A corbie is a colloquial term for a crow or raven.

Synonyms

crow, raven.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
corbie

Mostly used in Scottish dialect or poetry to refer to a crow or raven, adding a traditional or regional flavor.

  • The corbie's call echoed through the heath
  • Ancient tales speak of corbies as omens of fate
crow

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the black bird, often seen in urban or rural settings.

  • The crow perched on the power line
  • Crows are known for their intelligence
raven

Typically used to describe a larger black bird, often associated with mystery or foreboding in literature and culture.

  • A raven flew overhead, casting a dark shadow
  • The raven's deep caw gave the forest an eerie feel

Examples of usage

  • The corbie cawed loudly from the treetop.
  • The farmers often saw a corbie perched on the fence.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Corbies appear frequently in Scottish folklore, where they are often considered omens or symbols of death.
  • In Shakespeare's works, the association of crows and ravens often conveys themes of mystery and the supernatural.
  • Edgar Allan Poe famously featured the raven, a close relative, in his poem 'The Raven,' symbolizing loss and mourning.

Folklore

  • In Scottish dialect, 'corbie' is used to describe not only the raven but also embodies themes of darkness and change.
  • Folklore often portrays corbies as messengers between worlds, linking the living and the dead.
  • In many cultures, these birds are seen as wise creatures, often guiding heroes or imparting important lessons.

Science

  • Corbies, like crows, belong to the Corvidae family, known for their high intelligence and problem-solving skills.
  • Studies show that these birds can use tools, an ability once thought to be exclusive to humans and some primates.
  • They have complex social structures and can mimic sounds, showcasing their advanced cognitive abilities.

Pop Culture

  • In modern media, corbies often symbolize mystery, appearing in films and literature associated with the supernatural.
  • They are sometimes depicted in fantasy genres as magical creatures or companions to witches and wizards.
  • Video games frequently utilize raven-like characters to signify guidance or dark themes.

Origin of 'corbie'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'corbie' comes from the Old French word 'corbeau,' which means 'raven.'
  • In Middle English, 'corbie' referred specifically to the raven, emphasizing its cultural importance in folklore.
  • It is related to the Latin word 'corvus,' meaning 'crow,' indicating a deep linguistic history.

The word 'corbie' originates from the Middle English 'corby', which is related to the Old French 'corbeau' meaning 'raven'. It has been used in Scottish and Northern English dialects to refer to crows or ravens.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,237, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.