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Fantails: meaning, definitions and examples

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fantails

 

[ ˈfænteɪlz ]

Noun
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.

Etymology

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.