Meadowlark Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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meadowlark
[ˈmɛdəʊlɑrk ]
Definition
bird species
The meadowlark is a medium-sized bird in the family Icteridae, known for its distinctive singing voice and bright colors. Commonly found in open fields and meadows, they are notable for their cheerful songs that are often heard in spring. The two main species are the Eastern Meadowlark and the Western Meadowlark, each with slightly different habitats and vocalizations.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The meadowlark sang sweetly as I walked through the field.
- During spring, the meadowlarks are a common sight in the area.
- I often hear the meadowlark before I see it.
- The Eastern Meadowlark is known for its beautiful melody.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Habitat
- Meadowlarks primarily inhabit open fields and grasslands, often found across North America.
- They prefer areas with tall grasses that provide shelter and nesting spots.
- These birds migrate to warmer regions during winter, showcasing their adaptability to changing environments.
Behavior and Diet
- Known for their melodious songs, meadowlarks often sing from prominent spots to attract mates.
- Their diet mainly consists of insects and seeds, helping to control pest populations in their ecosystem.
- Meadowlarks are ground nesters, which means they build their nests on the ground, hidden among grass for protection.
Cultural Significance
- In some U.S. states, the meadowlark is designated as the state bird, representingjoy and freedom.
- These birds have been featured in folklore and songs, symbolizing happiness and the arrival of spring.
- Their cheerful singing has made them a beloved subject in literature and music throughout history.
Conservation Status
- While meadowlarks are not currently endangered, their populations are declining due to habitat loss and agricultural practices.
- Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring grasslands to support their natural habitat.
- Environmental changes due to climate change pose potential risks to their migration patterns and breeding success.
Origin of 'meadowlark'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'meadowlark' combines 'meadow,' meaning a grassy field, and 'lark,' a type of singing bird.
- Its name reflects both its habitat and its joyful song, highlighting the connection to nature.
- Different species have unique names, such as the Western and Eastern meadowlarks, showing variety within this group.
The word 'meadowlark' is derived from the combination of two English words: 'meadow,' referring to a tract of grassland, and 'lark,' a term historically used for various songbirds. The term 'meadowlark' has been used since at least the 19th century to denote specific members of the Icteridae family that thrive in open grassland habitats. The birds are particularly noted for their melodic singing, which is often associated with the arrival of spring. The genus name 'Sturnella' comes from the Latin word 'sturnus,' meaning starling, reflecting their shared characteristics with starlings such as body shape and song. Meadowlarks have been celebrated in American culture as symbols of the open countryside, and their songs are often celebrated in folk music.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #37,823, 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.