Meaning & Definition of word "Nightingale"

Nightingale

/ˈnaɪ.tɪŋˌɡeɪl/

noun:

  • 1. A nightingale is a small songbird known for its powerful and beautiful song, typically found in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
    • Example: The nightingale sang sweetly in the moonlight, filling the air with its enchanting melody.
  • 2. In literature and poetry, a nightingale often symbolizes beauty and love due to its lovely song.
    • Example: In Keats' poetry, the nightingale represents the ideal of beauty amid the harsh realities of life.
  • 3. The term 'nightingale' can also refer to a person who sings melodiously or has a beautiful singing voice.
    • Example: She was known as the nightingale of the town, captivating audiences with her remarkable vocal talent.

Etymology

Middle English, from 'night' + 'gale' (a variant of 'gal'), meaning a songbird that sings at night.

Common Phrases and Expressions

nightingale's song:

A reference to beautiful or poetic singing.

to sound like a nightingale:

To sing or speak with a sweet and melodious tone.

Related Words

bird:

A warm-blooded vertebrate of the class Aves, distinguished by feathers and beaks.

song:

A short poem or composition set to music.

melody:

A sequence of musical notes that are perceived as a single entity.

Slang Meanings of nightingale

Meaning: To be extremely romantic or poetic.

Example Sentence: He was nightingaling all over the place with his love letters.

Meaning: To sing beautifully or with great skill.

Example Sentence: She really knows how to nightingale when she's on stage.