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Curlew: meaning, definitions and examples

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curlew

 

[ˈkɜːrljuː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird species

A curlew is a large shorebird belonging to the family Scolopacidae. Curlews are known for their long, curved bills which they use to probe for invertebrates in mudflats and estuaries. They are found in both North America and Eurasia, primarily in coastal areas. These birds are migratory and are often seen in flocks during their migration seasons. Their distinctive call is often associated with wetlands and is a sound that birdwatchers frequently seek out.

Synonyms

shorebird, wading bird.

Examples of usage

  • The curlew is famous for its long beak.
  • We spotted several curlews along the shoreline.
  • The curlew's call echoed across the marshland.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'curlew' comes from Middle English 'curlewe', which likely imitates the bird’s call.
  • Rooted in the Old French term 'courlieu', which is thought to relate to the bird’s distinctive shape.
  • The modern pronunciation has retained much of its original sounds, showing its historical significance.

Ecology

  • Curlews play a vital role in wetland ecosystems, helping control insect populations and serving as indicators of environmental health.
  • They are migratory birds, traveling thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds, showcasing incredible navigation skills.
  • Their long legs allow them to forage for food in mudflats, where they eat worms, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.

Conservation

  • Some curlew species are endangered due to habitat loss and changes in land use, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
  • Community initiatives in various regions work to protect nesting sites to ensure curlews can thrive and reproduce.
  • Birdwatchers often participate in citizen science projects to help track curlew populations and inform preservation strategies.

Culture

  • Curlews have inspired poetry and music, often symbolizing a connection to nature and the countryside.
  • The sight and sound of curlews in certain regions evoke nostalgia, representing the natural beauty and heritage of those landscapes.
  • In some cultures, they are seen as omens or spiritual symbols, adding to their cultural significance.

Literature

  • Curlews appear in various literary works, often described for their haunting calls and the beauty of their habitats.
  • Famous authors have used the imagery of curlews to evoke landscape and emotion, reflecting a connection to natural settings.
  • In folklore, curlews have been featured in stories that explore themes of migration and the changing seasons.

Translations

Translations of the word "curlew" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cavalo-de-frisa

🇮🇳 कर्ल्यू

🇩🇪 Säbelschnäbler

🇮🇩 burung curlew

🇺🇦 кулон

🇵🇱 kulik

🇯🇵 クールリュウ

🇫🇷 courlis

🇪🇸 aguja

🇹🇷 kırlangıç

🇰🇷 갈매기

🇸🇦 طائر الشنقب

🇨🇿 kulík

🇸🇰 kulík

🇨🇳 弓头鹬

🇸🇮 kulik

🇮🇸 kúlu

🇰🇿 құлан

🇬🇪 კურლიუ

🇦🇿 kürlü

🇲🇽 aguja

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,612 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.