Meaning & Definition of word "Canary"
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Canary
/kəˈnɛəri/
noun:
- 1. A small, yellow songbird of the finch family, often kept as a pet.
- Example: She has a canary that sings beautifully every morning.
- 2. A person or thing that serves as an early warning of danger.
- Example: The economic downturn acted as a canary in the coal mine for the impending recession.
adjective:
- 1. Having a yellow color, similar to that of a canary.
- Example: She wore a canary yellow dress to the party.
Etymology
The term 'canary' comes from the Spanish 'canario', which means 'of the Canary Islands' where the bird was originally found.
Common Phrases and Expressions
canary in a coal mine:
A warning of potential danger.
sing like a canary:
To inform on someone, often in the context of a whistleblower.
happy as a canary:
Very happy and carefree.
Related Words
finch:
A small bird with a short, thick beak used for eating seeds.
songbird:
A bird known for its vocal ability to produce melodies.
Slang Meanings of canary
Meaning: To rat someone out or inform on someone.
Example Sentence: He was afraid to say anything that might make him look like a canary.
Meaning: A term for someone who is overly talkative or gossipy.
Example Sentence: Don't be such a canary; keep your lips sealed.