Peregrine: meaning, definitions and examples

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peregrine

 

[ ˈpɛrɪɡrɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

bird of prey

A peregrine is a type of bird of prey known for its incredible speed and agility. They are often found in coastal areas and cliffs, where they hunt other birds in mid-air. Peregrines have a distinctive blue-gray coloration and sharp talons for catching their prey.

Synonyms

falcon, hawk, raptor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peregrine

Typically used to refer to the peregrine falcon, a specific species of bird known for its speed and hunting prowess.

  • The peregrine is one of the fastest animals on the planet.
  • We saw a peregrine dive to catch its prey.
falcon

A general term for birds of prey of the family Falconidae, often used in broader contexts or when the specific species is not important.

  • Falcons are known for their keen hunting skills.
  • The falcon soared high above the countryside.
hawk

Refers to a different group of birds of prey, usually larger and more robust compared to falcons. Often emphasizes strength and aggression.

  • The hawk circled its prey before swooping down.
  • In politics, a 'hawk' is someone who favors strong military action.
raptor

A scientific term used broadly for birds of prey, including hawks, eagles, falcons, and owls. Often used in biological or educational contexts.

  • Raptors play an important role in maintaining ecological balance.
  • We visited a raptor rehabilitation center.

Examples of usage

  • The peregrine is considered one of the fastest birds in the world.
  • Peregrines are known for their impressive hunting skills.
Context #2 | Noun

person who travels a lot

In a different context, a peregrine can refer to a person who travels frequently or who has a nomadic lifestyle. Such individuals are often adventurous and curious, always seeking new experiences and places to explore.

Synonyms

nomad, traveler, wanderer.

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Word Description / Examples
peregrine

Describing something or someone that is traveling or has traveled, often with a sense of adventure or exploration. Typically used in more literary or poetic contexts.

  • The peregrine artist roamed the countryside, drawing inspiration from nature
  • The novel follows the peregrine journey of a knight across uncharted lands
wanderer

Refers to someone who travels aimlessly without a fixed destination, often implying a sense of restlessness or a search for meaning. It has a somewhat romantic or sentimental undertone.

  • The wanderer drifted from town to town, never staying long in one place
  • Poets have often romanticized the life of a wanderer, free from the burdens of routine
nomad

Referring to a person or group of people who move from place to place rather than settling permanently. Often used to describe traditional lifestyles or modern people who travel frequently for work or leisure.

  • The nomads of the desert have lived this way for centuries, moving with the seasons
  • In today's gig economy, some people have adopted a digital nomad lifestyle, working remotely from various locations
traveler

A general term used for someone who travels, often on vacation or for business. This word does not carry any strong connotations and can be used in formal and informal contexts.

  • Travelers passing through the city often stop at this famous landmark
  • As a seasoned traveler, she had perfected the art of packing light

Examples of usage

  • John is a true peregrine, always on the move and exploring new countries.
  • She embraced her inner peregrine and set off on a journey around the world.

Translations

Translations of the word "peregrine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 falcão-peregrino

🇮🇳 पेरेग्रीन बाज़

🇩🇪 Wanderfalke

🇮🇩 alap-alap kawah

🇺🇦 сапсан

🇵🇱 sokół wędrowny

🇯🇵 ハヤブサ (hayabusa)

🇫🇷 faucon pèlerin

🇪🇸 halcón peregrino

🇹🇷 göçmen doğan

🇰🇷 송골매 (songgolmae)

🇸🇦 شاهين جوال

🇨🇿 sokol stěhovavý

🇸🇰 sokol sťahovavý

🇨🇳 游隼 (yóu sǔn)

🇸🇮 selca

🇮🇸 fálki

🇰🇿 қыран

🇬🇪 მომთაბარე მიმინო

🇦🇿 göçəri qızılquş

🇲🇽 halcón peregrino

Etymology

The word 'peregrine' has its origins in Latin, where 'peregrinus' meant 'foreign' or 'strange'. Over time, it came to be associated with birds of prey due to their migratory nature. The peregrine falcon, in particular, has been admired for centuries for its hunting prowess and speed. The term later expanded to include humans who traveled extensively, reflecting a sense of adventure and exploration.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,255, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.