Blackbird

/ˈblækˌbɜrd/

Meaning & Definition

noun
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.
The blackbird perched on the fence, singing its melodious tune.
Any of various other birds with dark plumage, including the Eurasian blackbird, which is a common songbird.
While walking in the park, I spotted an Eurasian blackbird searching for insects on the ground.
A term used to refer to a specific group of black-coated birds, often in folklore or poetry.
The poem painted a vivid image of the blackbirds dancing in the twilight sky.
In some contexts, refers to a common name for species of birds in the genus Turdus, particularly the Turdus merula.
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

Slang Meanings

To blackbird someone
He was blackbirding the competition out of sheer jealousy.
Blackbirding
The term refers to the act of abducting or coercing people, particularly associated with capturing laborers.