Meaning & Definition of word "Woodpecker"

Woodpecker

/ˈwʊdˌpɛkər/

1. A woodpecker is a type of bird belonging to the family Picidae, characterized by a stout body, a long tongue, and a distinctively pointed bill, known for pecking at trees and other wooden surfaces to find insects or create nesting sites.
- Example: I spotted a woodpecker tapping on the trunk of an old oak tree during my hike.
2. Woodpeckers are recognized for their drumming sounds made by rapidly pecking against trees.
- Example: The rhythmic drumming of the woodpecker echoed through the forest.
3. There are many species of woodpeckers, each with unique colors and markings.
- Example: The red-headed woodpecker is easily identifiable by its vibrant plumage.
4. Woodpeckers play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and creating cavities for other birds.
- Example: The woodpecker's foraging behavior helps aerate the tree bark and allows other wildlife to thrive.

The term comes from combining the words 'wood' and 'pecker', referring to the bird's habit of pecking wood.

barking at woodpeckers:

Making an effort that is futile or pointless.

woodpecker fever:

An obsession with repetitive tasks, often used to describe someone fixated on a minor detail.

drumming:

The sound made by a woodpecker as it pecks.

peck:

To strike or puncture with a beak.

nest:

A structure of twigs, grass, or other materials where birds lay eggs.

Meaning: Someone who is overly persistent or annoying.

Example Sentence: Stop being such a woodpecker and let it go.

Meaning: A term for a repetitive or bothersome task.

Example Sentence: I'm stuck in this woodpecker job of sorting files all day.