Songbird: meaning, definitions and examples

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songbird

[ˈsɔːŋˌbɜːrd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

A songbird is a bird that is known for its musical singing abilities, often characterized by melodious and tuneful sounds. Songbirds are popular among birdwatchers and are admired for their beautiful songs.

Synonyms

nightingale, thrush, warbler.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
songbird	Commonly used to describe birds known for their melodic songs in general. Suitable for informal or general descriptions of birds that sing. I love waking up to the sound of the songbirds in the morning The park is full of different songbirds during the spring
warbler	Used for small birds known for their warbling songs. Common in birdwatching and ornithology contexts when referring to this specific type of songbird. The warbler fluttered from branch to branch, singing its cheerful tune Birdwatchers were excited to spot the rare warbler during their hike
thrush	Generally used to describe any bird from the thrush family, which includes many species known for their song. Perfect for discussions that are more scientific or specific. The thrush's song signals the arrival of spring Different species of thrushes can be found in both Europe and North America
nightingale	Refers specifically to a bird known for its beautiful and powerful nighttime singing. Use this term when emphasizing the bird's singing during the night and its unique, melodious song. The nightingale's song was so enchanting that it kept me awake all night Poets often write about the nightingale's heartfelt melodies

Examples of usage

The songbird perched on the branch and filled the air with its sweet melody.
The songbird's singing could be heard throughout the forest.
Many people enjoy waking up to the sound of songbirds in the morning.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

figurative

In a figurative sense, a songbird refers to a person with a beautiful and melodious singing voice. It is often used to compliment someone's vocal abilities or to describe a talented singer.

Synonyms

crooner, singer, vocalist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
songbird	Duplicate entry — see the first entry for 'songbird'.
vocalist	This term is often used to emphasize the technical and professional aspects of a person who sings, frequently found in genres like jazz, rock, and classical music. The band’s lead vocalist has an impressive range. She has been the principal vocalist for the choir for years.
singer	This is a general term for anyone who sings, regardless of style, genre, or level of professionalism. She is a talented singer with a wide range. The singer performed at the local club last night.
crooner	This word refers to a singer, usually a man, who performs sentimental songs in a smooth, soft voice. It is often associated with a retro or nostalgic style, particularly from the mid-20th century. He’s a crooner like Frank Sinatra, with that silky smooth voice. The crooner serenaded the crowd with classic love songs.

Examples of usage

She is a true songbird, her voice is simply enchanting.
The audience was captivated by the songbird's performance on stage.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'songbird' combines 'song,' meaning a musical sound, and 'bird,' referring to a feathered creature.
The word has been used in English since the 16th century to describe birds that are known for their singing abilities.

Biology

Songbirds are part of the order Passeriformes, which includes over half of all bird species.
Many songbirds have specialized vocal organs called syrinxes that allow them to produce a variety of sounds.
Most songbirds are not only known for their songs but also for their complex mating rituals that involve singing.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, songbirds symbolize freedom and happiness, often appearing in poetry and art.
Famous songs, like 'Blackbird' by The Beatles, use the imagery of songbirds to convey deeper meanings about hope and resilience.

Conservation

Songbirds are crucial for ecosystems as they often help with pest control and seed dispersal.
Habitat loss and climate change significantly threaten many songbird species, leading to conservation efforts worldwide.

Music and Sound

Natural bird songs have inspired countless musical compositions and genres, influencing musicians throughout history.
The study of bird songs helps scientists understand communication and learning behaviors in animals.

Translations

Translations of the word "songbird" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pássaro cantor

🇮🇳 गायक पक्षी

🇩🇪 Singvogel

🇮🇩 burung penyanyi

🇺🇦 співочий птах

🇵🇱 ptak śpiewający

🇯🇵 歌鳥

🇫🇷 oiseau chanteur

🇪🇸 ave cantora

🇹🇷 ötücü kuş

🇰🇷 노래하는 새

🇸🇦 طائر مغرد

🇨🇿 zpěvný pták

🇸🇰 spevavý vták

🇨🇳 鸣禽

🇸🇮 pevka

🇮🇸 söngfugl

🇰🇿 әнші құс

🇬🇪 მომღერალი ჩიტი

🇦🇿 mahnı quşu

🇲🇽 ave cantora