Wattled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wattled
[ˈwɑːtld ]
Definition
describing features
The term 'wattled' refers to the physical characteristic of having a fold of skin or fleshy material hanging loose, often seen in certain birds and animals. It is commonly associated with the neck area, where the folds can be prominent. Birds such as turkeys and certain species of the rooster are known for their wattled appearances. This feature is often involved in mating displays and can signify health and vitality in the species. Wattles can also serve as a means of temperature regulation in some animals.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The rooster displayed its vibrant wattled neck during the mating ritual.
- Many game birds are associated with distinctive wattled features.
- She admired the wattled turkeys roaming in the farmyard.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Wattles are often seen in game birds, such as turkeys, and play a part in mating displays.
- In some species, wattles can change color with the seasons, indicating health and attracting mates.
- Wattles may help in thermoregulation, allowing animals to regulate their body temperature.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, wattled birds are considered symbols of abundance and are used in culinary traditions.
- The presence of wattles can influence a bird's role in cultural stories and folklore where they are seen as creatures with wisdom.
- Farmers may select breeds based on the prominence of wattles, reflecting regional preferences.
Art and Literature
- Wattled creatures often appear in children's books and fables, symbolizing playful or wise characteristics.
- Artists have historically represented wattled birds in paintings, exploring themes of nature and beauty.
- They are sometimes depicted in nature documentaries, showcasing their unique physical traits.
Pop Culture
- In animated movies and shows, wattled animals are often portrayed with exaggerated features for comedic effect.
- Songs and rhymes for children often use characters with wattles to teach about diversity in the animal kingdom.
- Wattled birds are popular in video games featuring farm life, reflecting a cozy rural aesthetic.
Origin of 'wattled'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Old English word 'wadlock', originally used to describe the hanging skin of poultry.
- The word has ties to similar terms in other languages, reflecting its association with certain animals.
- First recorded usage in English dates back to the 14th century.
The word 'wattled' originates from the Middle English word 'watled', which is derived from the verb 'wattle' which means to form a structure or shape that is interwoven or twisted. This term has its roots in the Old English 'waetlan', which relates to binding or weaving. The usage of 'wattle' to describe the fleshy appendages on certain animals appeared in the 15th century. Over time, 'wattled' has been employed predominantly in zoological contexts, often in relation to avian species, where these distinctive features signify certain biological functions and assist in various behavioral displays. The evolution of the term continued into the modern English language, where it retains its descriptive nature for both animals and some forms of anatomy in other species.