Definition

Noun: 1. An extinct species of parrot: The Carolina parakeet was a small, brightly colored, long-tailed parrot native to North America. It is known for being the only parrot species indigenous to the eastern United States and is now extinct.

Usage

The term "Carolina parakeet" is used exclusively as a proper noun to refer to this specific extinct bird species (Conuropsis carolinensis). It is used in historical, biological, and conservation contexts.

Examples

• The last known Carolina parakeet died in captivity in 1918.
• Museum specimens of the Carolina parakeet show its vibrant green, yellow, and orange plumage.
• Habitat loss and hunting are cited as primary causes for the extinction of the Carolina parakeet.

Advanced Usage

• In historical context: The term is used to discuss pre-20th century American ecology and the impact of human activity on native species.
• In scientific nomenclature: The binomial name is used interchangeably with the common name "Carolina parakeet" in academic writing.

Variants and Related Words

• Carolina conure: An alternative common name for the same species.
• Conuropsis carolinensis: The formal scientific (Latin) name for the species.

Synonyms

• Extinct parakeet (a descriptive synonym, not a proper name).

Notes on Meaning

This term has only one specific referent: the extinct parrot species native to the southeastern United States. It does not refer to any living parakeet species.

Noun

1. extinct parakeet whose range extended far into the United States