Meaning & Definition of word "Waterfowl"

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    Waterfowl

    /ˈwɔːtərfaʊl/

    noun:

    • 1. Waterfowl refers to birds that are commonly found in or around water, particularly those that are adapted for swimming, such as ducks and geese.
      • Example: The lake was filled with various species of waterfowl, including ducks, swans, and geese.
    • 2. Waterfowl are often hunted for sport or food.
      • Example: In the fall, many hunters enjoy tracking waterfowl during migratory seasons.
    • 3. Conservation programs often focus on protecting habitats for waterfowl.
      • Example: The wetlands restoration project aims to improve the breeding grounds for local waterfowl.
    • 4. Migratory waterfowl travel great distances between breeding and wintering grounds.
      • Example: Every spring, thousands of migratory waterfowl return to the northern lakes to breed.
    • 5. Waterfowl can serve as indicators of the health of aquatic ecosystems.
      • Example: Scientists study waterfowl populations to assess the impact of pollution on local environments.

    Etymology

    The term 'waterfowl' combines 'water' + 'fowl', with 'fowl' derived from Old English 'fugol' meaning bird.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    wild waterfowl:

    Refers to waterfowl that live in the wild, not domesticated.

    waterfowl hunting:

    The activity of hunting waterfowl for sport or food.

    waterfowl migration:

    The seasonal movement of waterfowl from breeding to wintering grounds.

    Related Words

    duck:

    A common type of waterfowl, often found in ponds and rivers.

    goose:

    A larger waterfowl that often migrates in flocks.

    swamp:

    A wetland area where many waterfowl may be found.

    Slang Meanings of waterfowl

    Meaning: A term sometimes used jokingly to refer to a clumsy person.

    Example Sentence: Don't trip on that step, or you'll look like a waterfowl!

    Meaning: Referring to a person who frequently goes fishing or hunting for waterfowl.

    Example Sentence: He's such a waterfowl chaser; he's out every weekend.