Mockingbirds: meaning, definitions and examples
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mockingbirds
[ ˈmɒkɪŋbɜrdz ]
bird species
Mockingbirds are a family of birds known for their ability to imitate the songs of other birds and sounds from their environment. They possess a unique vocal repertoire that can include mimicking the calls of up to 200 different species. This adaptability makes them highly regarded in various cultural contexts.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The mockingbirds sang a beautiful symphony at dawn.
- He was amazed by the mockingbird's ability to imitate a car alarm.
- In the garden, mockingbirds often mimic the sounds of other wildlife.
Translations
Translations of the word "mockingbirds" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pássaros-mockers
🇮🇳 मॉकिंगबर्ड
🇩🇪 Spottdrossel
🇮🇩 burung mockingbird
🇺🇦 мокінгберди
🇵🇱 mockingbird
🇯🇵 モッキングバード
🇫🇷 moqueur
🇪🇸 mirlo
🇹🇷 mimik kuşları
🇰🇷 모킹버드
🇸🇦 طائر المحاكاة
🇨🇿 mimink
🇸🇰 napodobiteľ
🇨🇳 嘲鸥
🇸🇮 mimik
🇮🇸 mimari
🇰🇿 көшірме құстары
🇬🇪 მოქკინგბერდი
🇦🇿 şirin quşlar
🇲🇽 mirlo
Etymology
The term 'mockingbird' dates back to the late 18th century, specifically around the 18th century, stemming from the combination of the words 'mock,' meaning to imitate or mimic, and 'bird.' The name typically refers to species within the family Mimidae, especially the Northern Mockingbird, which became widely recognized for its vocal skills. The mockingbird has cultural significance in literature and music, often symbolizing freedom and adaptability. For instance, in Harper Lee’s classic novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' the bird is used as a metaphor for innocence and the importance of protecting those who cannot protect themselves. As a result, the mockingbird has not only scientific interest but also a robust place in American cultural identity.