Peahen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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peahen
[ˈpiːˌhɛn ]
Definition
animal species
A peahen is the female counterpart of the peacock, which is known for its vibrant plumage and extravagant tail feathers. Peahens are generally less colorful than their male counterparts, sporting a more subdued brown and gray plumage that helps with camouflage. They are native to South Asia but have been introduced in other parts of the world. Peahens are known to be protective mothers, often raising their young in groups.
Synonyms
Indian peafowl, female peacock.
Examples of usage
- The peahen nested near the pond.
- We spotted a peahen in the garden.
- The peahen is less flamboyant than the peacock.
- Peahens often roam in groups.
- I heard the peahen calling out in the evening.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In Indian culture, the peahen is considered a symbol of grace and beauty, often featured in traditional art and folklore.
- Peahens are associated with the monsoon season in India, celebrated for their mating dance that marks the arrival of rain.
Behavioral Traits
- Unlike males, female peafowl are more subdued in color but exhibit caring behavior by nurturing their chicks in small groups.
- Peahens are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of calls to communicate and signal their location.
Habitat and Diet
- Native to South Asia, peahens thrive in wooded areas and grasslands, which provide ample food and shelter.
- Their diet consists of seeds, insects, and small reptiles, showcasing their role in the ecosystem as both foragers and prey.
Comparison to Peacocks
- While peacocks are famous for their extravagant tail feathers, peahens have a more understated appearance, which helps them avoid predators.
- In many species of birds, females often exhibit more camouflaged colors than males, a survival trait seen in peahens.
Origin of 'peahen'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'peahen' has roots in Middle English from the Old French 'paon', which refers to peafowl.
- In many languages, similar words for 'hen' involve roots that express femininity, connecting to their role as female birds.
The term 'peahen' derives from the Old French word 'pavon', which in turn comes from the Latin 'pavo', meaning 'peacock'. The word 'hen' is of Old English origin, used to designate a female bird, especially in domesticated species. While 'peafowl' is a collective term for both the males and females of the species, 'peahen' specifically refers to the female. The distinct usage of 'peahen' showcases the cultural fascination with peacocks throughout history, where males are often depicted in art and literature due to their showy appearance, while females are recognized for their nurturing roles. Over time, the understanding of peahens and their behavior has evolved, contributing to their representation in zoology and aviculture.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,104, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.