Pipistrelle: meaning, definitions and examples

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pipistrelle

 

[ ˈpɪpɪˌstrɛl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

small bat

A pipistrelle is a type of small bat typically found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. These bats are known for their agile flying abilities and echolocation skills. They are often seen darting around at dusk, feeding on insects. Pipistrelles play a crucial role in controlling insect populations in their habitats.

Synonyms

flittermouse, pip.

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Word Description / Examples
pipistrelle

Same as above. Often used in a formal or scientific context.

  • The biologist was studying the habitat of the pipistrelle
pip

Shortened from 'pipistrelle,' this informal term is rarely used and might confuse people who are not familiar with it.

  • I saw a pip flying around the backyard yesterday
flittermouse

This old-fashioned term is rarely used in modern language but might be found in historical texts or folklore stories. It can evoke a sense of antiquity or playfulness.

  • In medieval folklore, the flittermouse was often seen as a mystical creature of the night

Examples of usage

  • Pipistrelles are important for maintaining a balanced ecosystem by controlling insect numbers.
  • I saw a pipistrelle flying overhead at sunset.

Translations

Translations of the word "pipistrelle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 morcego-pipistrelo

🇮🇳 छोटी चमगादड़

🇩🇪 Zwergfledermaus

🇮🇩 kelelawar kecil

🇺🇦 кажан-піпістель

🇵🇱 karlik malutki

🇯🇵 コキクガシラコウモリ

🇫🇷 pipistrelle

🇪🇸 murciélago común

🇹🇷 cüce yarasa

🇰🇷 작은박쥐

🇸🇦 خفاش صغير

🇨🇿 netopýr řasnatý

🇸🇰 netopier obyčajný

🇨🇳 伏翼蝙蝠

🇸🇮 majhna netopir

🇮🇸 dvergkettlingur

🇰🇿 кішкентай жарғанат

🇬🇪 პატარა ღამურა

🇦🇿 kiçik yarasa

🇲🇽 murciélago común

Etymology

The word 'pipistrelle' originated from French 'pipistrelle' and ultimately from Latin 'pipio' meaning 'chirp' or 'twitter'. The name refers to the sound these bats make while flying. Pipistrelles have been a subject of fascination and study for centuries due to their unique characteristics and behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,598, 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.