Peacock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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peacock
[ˈpiːkɒk ]
Definition
bird species
A peacock is a large, colorful bird known for its iridescent tail feathers, which it can fan out in a display during courtship. The peacock is most commonly associated with the species Pavo cristatus, or the Indian peafowl, which features vibrant blue and green plumage. Peafowls are native to South Asia but have spread to many tropical regions around the world. The male is called a peacock, the female a peahen, and together they are known as peafowl.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The peacock displayed its feathers during the mating ritual.
- In Indian culture, the peacock is often seen as a symbol of beauty and grace.
- Tourists often flock to see the peacocks at the botanical gardens.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the peacock represents beauty and grace. In India, it is a national bird and symbolizes love and compassion.
- In various mythologies, the feathers are considered symbols of immortality. In Hinduism, the peacock is associated with the goddess Saraswati.
Behavior and Habitat
- These birds are known for their impressive courtship displays, where males fan out their feathers to attract females.
- Peacocks are ground-dwelling birds and prefer to live in forested areas or open terrains where they can forage for food.
Science
- Peacocks have about 200 feathers in their tail, and the vibrant colors come from microscopic structures that reflect light.
- They are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and small animals, including insects and rodents.
Art and Literature
- The peacock has been a symbol in art and literature for centuries, representing pride and vanity, often depicted in paintings and sculptures.
- Notable appearances include being featured in works by authors like Oscar Wilde, who used the peacock to symbolize excess and beauty.
Origin of 'peacock'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'peacock' comes from Old English 'pēa' and 'cuc', which translates to 'male bird'.
- The female is called a 'peahen', and together, they are referred to as 'peafowl'.
The word 'peacock' originates from the Old English 'pēa' which comes from Proto-Germanic '*paizō' meaning 'peafowl'. In Middle English, the term evolved into 'peacocke', which referred specifically to the male of the species. The usage of the word has historically been linked to the bird's vivid and striking appearance, symbolizing beauty, pride, and vanity in various cultural contexts. The peacock's long tail feathers, which can span several feet in length, are actually not its feathers, but elongated upper tail coverts, making it a unique member of the ave family. The female, known as a peahen, does not possess the same elaborate coloration, reflecting a natural evolutionary advantage to ensure survival through camouflage. Throughout history, the peacock has been depicted in art and literature, reinforcing its status as an emblem of grace and beauty.