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Pelican: meaning, definitions and examples

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pelican

 

[ ˈpɛlɪkən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

bird species

A pelican is a large water bird known for its distinctive long beak and large throat pouch, which it uses for catching fish. Pelicans are typically found in warm coastal regions and are known for their graceful flight and unique feeding behavior.

Synonyms

fowl, waterbird

Examples of usage

  • The pelican swooped down to catch a fish.
  • We saw a group of pelicans by the beach.
  • Pelicans can hold large amounts of water in their pouches.
  • During the summer, pelicans migrate to warmer waters.

Translations

Translations of the word "pelican" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pelicano

🇮🇳 पेलिकन

🇩🇪 Pelikan

🇮🇩 pelikan

🇺🇦 пелікан

🇵🇱 pelikan

🇯🇵 ペリカン

🇫🇷 pélican

🇪🇸 pelícano

🇹🇷 pelikan

🇰🇷 펠리컨

🇸🇦 بجع

🇨🇿 pelikán

🇸🇰 pelikán

🇨🇳 鹈鹕

🇸🇮 pelikan

🇮🇸 pelíkan

🇰🇿 пелікан

🇬🇪 პელიკანი

🇦🇿 pelikan

🇲🇽 pelícano

Etymology

The word 'pelican' has its origins in the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French 'pelican' and Latin 'pelicanus'. The Latin term itself comes from the Ancient Greek word 'pelekan', which is believed to be derived from the root word that means 'to pluck or pull', possibly referring to the bird's behavior of catching fish with its beak. Pelicans have been recognized and depicted in various cultures throughout history, often admired for their hunting abilities and unique physical characteristics. Their presence in folklore and literature highlights humanity's fascination with nature and wildlife.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,236, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.