Definition

1. Noun:
   • American songbird; male is black and orange or yellow: An "American oriole" is a type of perching bird found in the Americas. The males of these species are known for their striking black plumage combined with bright patches of orange or yellow.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The vibrant colors of the American oriole make it easy to spot among the green leaves.
  • We put out orange slices to attract an American oriole to our backyard.

Advanced Usage

• Collective reference: The term "American oriole" is often used to refer collectively to birds of the genus , distinguishing them from the unrelated "Old World orioles" found in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
  • The guide explained that the American oriole is not closely related to its namesake in Europe.

Variants and Related Words

• Oriole (n): A common shortened form for "American oriole" in regions where it is the only type present.
  • An oriole built its hanging nest in the maple tree.
• Icterid (n): The scientific family name (Icteridae) that includes American orioles, blackbirds, and meadowlarks.
  • Grackles and bobolinks are also members of the icterid family.

Synonyms

• New World oriole: A synonym that emphasizes the bird's geographic distinction from Old World species.
• Icterus (n): The genus name, used in more technical or scientific contexts.

Related Phrases

• Oriole nest: Refers to the distinctive, hanging, pouch-like nest woven by these birds.
  • Finding an oriole nest is a sign of a healthy, mature tree.

Noun

1. American songbird; male is black and orange or yellow