Meaning & Definition of word "Blackbird"
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Blackbird
/ˈblækˌbɜrd/
noun:
- 1. A small to medium-sized bird belonging to the family Icteridae, typically characterized by a stout body and a strong beak, often associated with the color black.
- Example: The blackbird perched on the fence, singing its melodious tune.
- 2. Any of various other birds with dark plumage, including the Eurasian blackbird, which is a common songbird.
- Example: While walking in the park, I spotted an Eurasian blackbird searching for insects on the ground.
- 3. A term used to refer to a specific group of black-coated birds, often in folklore or poetry.
- Example: The poem painted a vivid image of the blackbirds dancing in the twilight sky.
- 4. In some contexts, refers to a common name for species of birds in the genus Turdus, particularly the Turdus merula.
- Example: As spring approached, the blackbirds returned to build their nests in our garden.
Etymology
Old English blæc (black) + bird
Common Phrases and Expressions
Blackbird singing in the dead of night:
A phrase often used to signify unexpected beauty or joy in dark times.
A blackbird flew across my path:
A superstition indicating a potential warning or omen.
Related Words
robin:
A small, often red-breasted songbird, known for its melodious singing.
thrush:
A family of birds known for their songs, similar to the blackbird.
Slang Meanings of blackbird
Meaning: To blackbird someone
Example Sentence: He was blackbirding the competition out of sheer jealousy.
Meaning: Blackbirding
Example Sentence: The term refers to the act of abducting or coercing people, particularly associated with capturing laborers.