Lyrebird: meaning, definitions and examples
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lyrebird
[ ˈlaɪərˌbɜːrd ]
bird species
The lyrebird is a remarkable bird native to Australia, best known for its unique ability to mimic natural and artificial sounds from its environment. There are two extant species of lyrebirds: the superb lyrebird and the African lyrebird. Males are particularly noted for their elaborate courtship displays, which include intricate feathery tails resembling a lyre, from which they derive their name. They are highly skilled vocal imitators, able to replicate the calls of other birds, as well as mechanical sounds like chainsaws or camera shutters, showcasing their impressive vocal repertoire.
Synonyms
Australian songbird, mimicry bird
Examples of usage
- The lyrebird's mimicry is astounding.
- During spring, male lyrebirds perform elaborate displays.
- I heard a lyrebird imitating a car alarm.
Translations
Translations of the word "lyrebird" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pássaro lira
🇮🇳 लाइर बर्ड
🇩🇪 Lyrebird
🇮🇩 burung lyre
🇺🇦 ліровий птах
🇵🇱 ptak lira
🇯🇵 ライアーバード
🇫🇷 oiseau lyre
🇪🇸 pájaro lira
🇹🇷 lyra kuşu
🇰🇷 리라새
🇸🇦 طائر القيثارة
🇨🇿 lyrovník
🇸🇰 lyrovník
🇨🇳 竖琴鸟
🇸🇮 harfasti ptica
🇮🇸 harfufugl
🇰🇿 арфа құсы
🇬🇪 ლირის მერცხალი
🇦🇿 lyra quşu
🇲🇽 pájaro lira
Etymology
The term 'lyrebird' originates from the early 19th century, combining 'lyre,' referring to the resemblance of the male's tail feathers to the musical instrument, and 'bird.' The name 'lyre' comes from the ancient Greek word 'lyra,' which was a stringed musical instrument. The lyrebird is a member of the family Menuridae, which includes other species of birds characterized by their vocal mimicry skills. Their mimicking abilities were first documented by European settlers who observed these birds in their natural habitat. The superb lyrebird, discovered in the 1800s, quickly became an object of fascination due to its extraordinary vocal talents, leading to greater interest in the study of avian communication and mimicry in general.