Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Turtledove Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ•Š๏ธ
Add to dictionary

turtledove

[หˆtษœr.tษ™lหŒdสŒv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird species

The turtledove is a type of dove known for its gentle cooing and is often associated with love and fidelity. They are smaller than other doves, featuring a distinctive long tail and a soft, grayish-brown plumage. Turtledoves are migratory birds, commonly found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa, particularly in open woodlands and fields. Their melodious call, often likened to a soothing 'tur-tur,' has made them a symbol of peace and love in various cultures.

Synonyms

dove, pigeon.

Examples of usage

  • The turtledove cooed softly in the trees.
  • Every spring, turtledoves return to the forest.
  • The couple chose turtledoves as their wedding symbol.
  • In the garden, turtledoves nested peacefully among the flowers.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, turtledoves symbolize love and fidelity, often featured in wedding traditions and poetry.
  • Biblically, they are mentioned in the Song of Solomon, symbolizing love, romance, and beauty.

Literature

  • The classic Christmas carol 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' famously mentions 'two turtledoves', highlighting their romantic symbolism.
  • Several poets and authors reference turtledoves to express themes of love, loyalty, and longing in their works.

Natural Behavior

  • Turtledoves are known for their monogamous behavior, often pairing for life, which reinforces their association with lasting love.
  • They coo softly and perform courtship flights that are part of their unique bonding rituals.

Conservation

  • In recent years, some species of turtledoves have faced population declines due to habitat loss and hunting.
  • Conservation efforts are being implemented to protect turtledove habitats and ensure their survival.

Origin of 'turtledove'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'turtledove' comes from the Middle English word 'turdus', meaning 'turtle', and 'dove', reflecting its bird type.
  • In different cultures, the first part of the word hints at the bird's gentle cooing sound, which resembles a turtleโ€™s call.

The term 'turtledove' dates back to the Old English word 'turtur,' which mimics the sound of the bird's cooing. This word, in turn, has roots in the Latin 'turtur' and the Greek 'turturos,' which denote the same bird. The turtledove has been celebrated throughout history, particularly in literature and art, symbolizing love and fidelity. In biblical references, the turtledove is often mentioned as a sacrifice and a symbol of purity. The connection to romantic love is particularly strong, as in the tradition of 'two turtledoves' representing a couple in love. Over centuries, this imagery has persisted in poetry, songs, and folklore, reinforcing its status as a symbol of enduring love.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,874, 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.