Whooper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆข
whooper
[หhuหpษr ]
Definition
bird type
The whooper is a large species of swan known for its striking appearance and distinctive cry. It is native to Eurasia and is the only member of the genus Cygnus that breeds in Iceland and parts of northern Europe. Whoopers are often found in wetlands, and they prefer shallow lakes and marshes for nesting and foraging. These swans have a wingspan that can exceed 2 meters, making them one of the largest flying birds. Their plumage is primarily white, and they possess a bright yellow patch on their black bill, which is a key identifying feature.
Synonyms
Cygnus cygnus, swans.
Examples of usage
- The whooper swan takes flight gracefully over the lake.
- During migration, whoopers can be seen flying in V-formation.
- The whooper's call can be heard echoing across the wetlands.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Wildlife
- Whooper swans are migratory and can travel long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.
- These birds are known for their strong family bonds, often traveling in family groups during migration.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, the whooper swan is a symbol of love and devotion due to its monogamous nature.
- They appear in folklore and art, often representing purity and grace.
Conservation
- Whooper swans are protected under several wildlife conservation laws due to their declining populations in certain areas.
- Wetland restoration efforts are crucial for their habitats, highlighting the importance of preserving natural ecosystems.
Trivia
- The whooper swan can weigh up to 15 kg (approximately 33 pounds) and has a wingspan of around 2.4 meters (about 8 feet).
- During mating displays, whooper swans perform synchronized movements that are both a courtship ritual and a way to establish territory.
Origin of 'whooper'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'whooper' originates from the sound it makes, often described as a trumpeting call.
- The term 'whooper' is commonly associated with the whooper swan, a species prevalent in Europe and Asia.
The term 'whooper' originates from the Old English word 'hwฤซรพer', which means 'to make a sound,' reflecting the swan's distinctive and loud call. This word has evolved over the centuries, with the whooper swan being formally identified in 1813 by the French zoologist Georges Cuvier. The whooper is often celebrated in folklore, especially in European cultures, where they are seen as symbols of love and fidelity. Their migratory behavior has been documented for centuries, and they have been the subject of various studies focusing on their habits and conservation. With the decline of their natural habitats, efforts have been made to protect whooper populations, emphasizing their ecological importance in aquatic ecosystems.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,566, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.