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.