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Fantails Meaning: Definition and Examples

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fantails

[ˈfænteɪlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird species

Fantails are small birds known for their distinctive fan-shaped tails. They are often found in forests and are known for their acrobatic flight and inquisitive behavior. These birds belong to the family Rhipiduridae and are commonly found in regions such as New Zealand and Australia.

Synonyms

Rhipiduridae, wagtail.

Examples of usage

  • The fantails danced through the trees, their tails fanning out beautifully.
  • We spotted a pair of fantails flitting around the garden.
  • Fantails are known for following hikers in search of insects.
  • The artist painted a stunning depiction of a fantail in mid-flight.

Interesting Facts

Birdwatching

  • Fantails are popular among birdwatchers because of their playful behavior and attractive appearance.
  • They often flit around, catching insects mid-air, showcasing their agility and grace.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, seeing a fantail is considered a good luck charm, often associated with joy and happiness.
  • The Māori people of New Zealand regard the fantail as a sign of friendship and welcome, often featuring them in their stories and legends.

Habitats

  • Fantails are commonly found in forests, gardens, and landscapes that provide plenty of insects for them to eat.
  • They adapt well to human environments, often seen fluttering around parks and backyard gardens.

Behavior

  • These birds have a charming behavior where they will wag their tails up and down when hunting for food.
  • Fantails are known for their beautiful song, which they use to communicate with others, often in a series of cheerful notes.

Origin of 'fantails'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'fantail' comes from the bird's distinctive tail, which spreads out like a fan.
  • In scientific classification, they belong to the family Rhipiduridae, which highlights their unique characteristics in the bird world.

The term 'fantail' originates from the combination of 'fan' and 'tail', referring to the bird's uniquely shaped tail feathers that spread out like a fan. The word 'fan' traces back to the Middle English 'fanne', which comes from the Old English 'fanna', meaning a 'feather' or 'wing'. The suffix '-tail' is a standard term in zoology to denote the last part of the body in animals. Fantails belong to the family Rhipiduridae, which includes several genera of small insectivorous birds. The fascinating behavior and vibrant flight of these birds have captivated bird-watchers and naturalists for centuries, leading to their inclusion in various cultural and artistic representations.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,442, 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.