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Macaw Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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macaw

[mษ™หˆkษ”ห ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird species

Macaws are large, colorful birds belonging to the family Psittacidae. They are known for their vibrant feathers and long tails. Native to Central and South America, macaws are often found in tropical rainforests, where they play a vital role in the ecosystem. These birds are highly intelligent and are capable of mimicking human speech, making them popular in aviculture. Due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade, many species of macaws are threatened or endangered.

Synonyms

bird, parrot.

Examples of usage

  • The macaw spread its wings in the vibrant sunlight.
  • She adopted a macaw that had been rescued from illegal trading.
  • Macaws are known for their playful nature and strong social bonds.
  • The bright colors of the macaw caught everyone's attention at the zoo.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Habitat

  • These birds are primarily found in Central and South America, where they thrive in tropical rainforests.
  • Some macaw species are adapted to live in savannas, showcasing their versatility in different environments.

Behavior

  • Macaws are known for their strong social bonds, often forming lifelong pairs with a mate.
  • They can live for over 50 years in captivity, making them a long-term companion for bird enthusiasts.

Conservation

  • Several macaw species are threatened due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade, prompting conservation efforts.
  • Organizations are working to protect their habitats and educate people about the importance of biodiversity.

Culture

  • Macaws often appear in indigenous art and folklore, symbolizing beauty and freedom.
  • In popular culture, they are portrayed as charismatic and intelligent birds, often featured in films and animations.

Origin of 'macaw'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'macaw' comes from the Tupi language, where 'makaw' refers to a parrot.
  • Macaws were first described in European literature by explorers in the 16th century, highlighting their exotic appeal.

The word 'macaw' comes from the Portuguese term 'maquau', which is believed to derive from the native Tupi language term 'macaรบ'. The use of the word dates back to the 16th century when European explorers first documented these exotic birds in the Americas. Macaws have long been admired for their striking plumage and intelligence, leading to their popularity both in the wild and in captivity. In the wild, macaws are known to form strong social bonds and frequently engage in playful interactions with one another. Their ability to mimic sounds, including human voices, has also contributed to their status as beloved pets in various cultures worldwide. However, as their natural habitats have been encroached upon by human activities, the term 'macaw' has increasingly become associated with conservation efforts aimed at protecting these majestic birds.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,524, 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.