Meaning & Definition of Jay in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: Any of various noisy, colorful birds of the family Corvidae, particularly known for their blue plumage.

  Example Sentence: The blue jay is a common sight in North American forests.

• Definition: A derogatory term for a foolish or talkative person.

  Example Sentence: He was acting like a jay, making loud noises in the quiet library.

Etymology

Origin: From Middle English 'jaye', from Old French 'jae', from Latin 'gavia' meaning 'jay bird'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• jaywalking: Illegally crossing a street outside of a designated crosswalk.
• jay's feathers: Refers to someone being flashy or showy.

Translations

• Spanish: arrendajo

• French: geai

• German: Eichelhäher

• Russian: синица

Related Words

• corvid: Any bird of the family Corvidae, which includes jays, crows, and ravens.

• blue jay: A specific species of jay with blue, white, and black plumage.

Slang Meanings of jay

• Meaning: A term for marijuana or a joint.

  Example Sentence: He rolled a jay before the party.

• Meaning: Refers to a foolish person, similar to the traditional use.

  Example Sentence: Don't be such a jay, think before you act.