Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Titmouse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐦
Add to dictionary

titmouse

[ˈtɪtˌmaʊs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird species

A titmouse is a small songbird belonging to the family Paridae, which includes both titmice and chickadees. These birds are characterized by their short necks, stout bodies, and strong, conical bills. Titmice are commonly found in woodlands, gardens, and parks, where they are often seen flitting about in search of insects, seeds, and berries. They are known for their distinctive calls and playful behavior, making them a favorite among birdwatchers.

Synonyms

chickadee, paridae, tit.

Examples of usage

  • The titmouse perched on the tree branch.
  • I spotted a titmouse at the bird feeder.
  • Titmice are known to travel in small flocks.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'titmouse'

The term 'titmouse' is derived from two elements in the English language. The first part, 'tit,' originates from Middle English 'titte,' used as a term of endearment for a small creature or child, which is further traced back to Old English 'titt,' meaning small bird. The second part, 'mouse,' comes from the Old English 'mūs,' referring to the small mammal, likely used here to describe the small size of these birds. The combination of 'tit' and 'mouse' reflects the bird's petite stature. Titmice have been part of the European avifauna and have various species in North America as well. Their playful nature and distinctive appearance make them a notable presence in gardens and forests.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,757, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.