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Guillemot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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guillemot

[หˆษกษชlษ™mษ’t ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird species

A guillemot is a type of seabird belonging to the family Alcidae, which includes a variety of marine birds that are characterized by their elongated bodies and strong wings. These birds are commonly found in cold northern waters and are known for their diving capabilities, feeding primarily on fish and invertebrates. Guillemots are often seen nesting on steep cliffs, where they lay eggs that are pear-shaped to prevent rolling off.

Synonyms

auk, seabird.

Examples of usage

  • The guillemot can dive to depths of over 200 feet to catch fish.
  • During breeding season, guillemots gather in large colonies on coastal cliffs.
  • The common guillemot is recognized by its distinctive dark plumage and white underbelly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Habitat

  • Guillemots are typically found along rocky coastlines in the Northern Hemisphere, showcasing their preference for cliffside homes.
  • These birds often nest in colonies, using the safety of numbers to avoid predators in their cliff-top nests.
  • During the winter, guillemots can be seen more offshore, showing their adaptability to different environments throughout the year.

Behavior

  • Guillemots are known for their impressive diving skills, reaching depths of up to 150 meters to hunt for fish.
  • These birds are social and communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations, particularly during breeding season.
  • They are also known to perform a unique โ€˜parachutingโ€™ behavior when they dive, which helps them reach deeper water swiftly.

Conservation

  • Some guillemot species face threats from climate change, which affects their food sources and nesting habitats.
  • Pollution in oceans poses risks to their health and food availability, highlighting the need for environmental protection efforts.
  • Many wildlife organizations monitor guillemot populations, raising awareness about the importance of preserving marine life.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, guillemots symbolize resilience and adaptability, thriving in harsh coastal environments.
  • The bird appears in various art forms, symbolizing the connection between humanity and nature, particularly in coastal communities.
  • Fishermen often view guillemots as indicators of fish populations, leading to a relationship between the birds and local fishing practices.

Origin of 'guillemot'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'guillemot' comes from the French 'guillaume', which means 'William', named probably for a type of bird hunted in France.
  • In the past, guillemots were sometimes referred to as 'murres', from old Norse words, highlighting their long history in European languages.
  • The name has variations in different languages, such as 'guillemot' in French and 'common murre' in English, demonstrating its wide recognition.

The word 'guillemot' descends from the 18th-century French term 'guillemot', itself derived from the older word 'guillemot', which is thought to be based on the diminutive form of 'Guillaume', the French form of 'William'. The name reflects the characteristics of this group of birds and has been used in English since at least the early 19th century. The guillemot is notable for its unique breeding habits and social behavior, often nesting in densely populated colonies. The evolution of the guillemot is strongly linked to their adaptation to life in marine environments, showcasing their remarkable diving prowess and ability to thrive in cold waters.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,108, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.