Whippoorwill: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'whippoorwill' originated in the early 19th century and is an example of onomatopoeia, as it imitates the bird's call. The name combines two elements: 'whippoor', which refers to the repetitive nature of its call, and 'will', which is a common ending found in birdsong names. The whip-poor-will is linked to the larger family of nightjars, which are known for their cryptic feather patterns and nocturnal behavior. Historically, the bird has been noted in American folk songs and literature, contributing to its significance in cultural references as a symbol of the night. Their natural habitats include open woodlands and shrubby areas, and they typically lay eggs on the ground, making them vulnerable. Over the years, the whip-poor-will has become a well-loved emblem in American folklore, often associated with a sense of peace and tranquility in the natural world.

Ranking #37,997, 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.

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• 37994 furling
• 37995 palliating
• 37996 dissimulate
• 37997 whippoorwill
• 37998 scalloping
• 37999 cannily
• 38000 slothfulness
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