Covey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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covey
[ˈkʌvi ]
Definition
group of birds
A covey is a small group of birds, particularly partridges or quails, that gather together for feeding or resting. These birds typically form coveys for protection against predators. The size of a covey can vary but is usually small, often comprising between 5 to 15 birds. This behavior helps them maintain social bonds and enhances their chances of survival in the wild.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- A covey of quails was spotted in the field.
- The hunters tracked a covey of birds through the dense brush.
- As the sun set, the covey of partridges took shelter in the underbrush.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Wildlife
- Coveys typically consist of 5 to 20 birds, enhancing their survival through teamwork.
- These groups often form during breeding season, where they offer safety in numbers from predators.
- Understanding covey behavior is crucial for conservationists studying species like quail and partridges.
Literature
- In literature, the word is sometimes used metaphorically to describe close-knit groups of people.
- Writers often use 'covey' to evoke a sense of companionship and shared experience in contemporary storytelling.
- For example, in works of nature writing, 'covey' can highlight the harmony found in ecosystems.
Culture
- In some cultures, observing coveys can be a part of traditional hunting and birdwatching practices.
- The concept of a 'covey' is celebrated in various folk tales and idioms that emphasize togetherness.
- The term is sometimes used in gaming terminology, where players form groups or clans, reminiscent of a covey.
Origin of 'covey'
Main points about word origin
- The term originates from Old French 'covee,' meaning 'a small group' or 'a nest of domestic birds.'
- It has been in use since the 16th century, often relating to game birds like partridges.
- It reflects a sense of community, as birds in a covey often stick together for protection.
The term 'covey' originates from Middle English 'covi', which is derived from the Old French word 'covee' meaning 'a couple' or 'a group'. The word has been in use since at least the late 14th century to refer specifically to small groups of birds that gather together. The association with game birds can be traced back to hunting culture, where it became crucial for hunters to understand the behavior of these birds in coveys for effective hunting strategies. Over the centuries, the usage of 'covey' has remained relatively stable, specifically in the context of birdwatching and hunting.