Cuckoo: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆ
cuckoo
[ หkสkuห ]
bird species
The cuckoo is a type of bird known for its distinctive call, which sounds like its name. Cuckoos are known for their unique breeding behavior, where they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species. This behavior is known as brood parasitism. They are found in various habitats across the globe, often associated with woodland and open areas. The term 'cuckoo' can also refer to the clock mechanism that produces a similar sound.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The cuckoo sang in the woods.
- We watched a cuckoo bird while hiking.
- The cuckoo laid its eggs in another bird's nest.
informal term
In informal usage, 'cuckoo' can refer to someone considered silly or mad. It is often used humorously to describe a person who behaves in an eccentric or foolish manner. This usage is derived from the bird's unusual breeding habits and distinctive call, which some might perceive as odd. The term can also imply a playful or lighthearted tone when used to describe someone.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He's acting a bit cuckoo today.
- Don't be such a cuckoo, just relax!
- She went cuckoo over the new gadgets.
sound imitation
To 'cuckoo' is to make a sound similar to that of the cuckoo bird. This is often used in a playful or whimsical context. The verb form captures the essence of mimicking the distinctive call of the cuckoo, often employed in games or playful interactions. It can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The children cuckoo'd while playing outside.
- He likes to cuckoo when he sees the bird.
- We heard them cuckooing in the garden.
Translations
Translations of the word "cuckoo" in other languages:
๐ต๐น cuco
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคฏเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช Kuckuck
๐ฎ๐ฉ burung cuckoo
๐บ๐ฆ ะบัะบััะบะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ kukawka
๐ฏ๐ต ใซใใณใฆ
๐ซ๐ท coucou
๐ช๐ธ cuco
๐น๐ท kukuk
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ป๊พธ๊ธฐ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุงูุบุฑุงุจ
๐จ๐ฟ kukรกk
๐ธ๐ฐ kukaฤka
๐จ๐ณ ๅธ่ฐท้ธ
๐ธ๐ฎ kukavica
๐ฎ๐ธ kรบkur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบาฑะทาาฑะปะฐะฝ
๐ฌ๐ช แแฃแแฃแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ kukla
๐ฒ๐ฝ cuco
Etymology
The word 'cuckoo' originates from the late 14th century, derived from Middle English 'cucucu' which mimics the bird's call. The term is believed to be an onomatopoeic term, imitating the sound the cuckoo bird makes. Its use as a noun to refer to the bird itself and its behavior, particularly brood parasitism, became established in English literature by the late 15th century. Over the years, the term has also taken on additional meanings, including a colloquial term for someone perceived as silly or mad. This expansion of meaning showcases the adaptability of language and how the characteristics of one species can influence social terminology. The cuckoo's unique breeding habits have captured the imagination of various cultures, leading to a rich tapestry of folklore and symbolism associated with the bird.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #20,946, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
- ...
- 20943 officiating
- 20944 truncation
- 20945 striding
- 20946 cuckoo
- 20947 unequally
- 20948 platen
- 20949 expelling
- ...