Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of bird: A dove is a bird, typically smaller and more slender than a pigeon, often with a soft, cooing call. Doves are frequently symbols of peace, love, and gentleness.
   • An advocate for peace: A person, especially in politics, who prefers peaceful solutions and negotiations over conflict or war.
   • A term of endearment: A loving or affectionate name for someone, implying gentleness and innocence.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Bird):
  • A white dove landed on the windowsill.
  • We could hear the gentle cooing of the doves in the trees.
• Noun (Peace advocate):
  • The senator was known as a dove, always seeking diplomatic solutions.
  • The doves in the government argued against military intervention.
• Noun (Term of endearment):
  • "Goodnight, my dove," he whispered.

Advanced Usage

• "Dove of Peace": A specific symbol, often a white dove with an olive branch, representing peace. This imagery is common in art and politics.
  • The painting featured a dove of peace flying over the battlefield.
• Political "hawk vs. dove": In political contexts, a "dove" is contrasted with a "hawk" (someone who favors aggressive or warlike policies).
  • The debate between the hawks and the doves shaped the country's foreign policy.

Variants and Related Words

• Pigeon (n): A bird of the same family (Columbidae), often larger and found in urban areas. While "dove" and "pigeon" are scientifically similar, "dove" often carries more poetic or positive connotations.
  • City squares are often full of pigeons.
• Dovish (adj): Having or showing a preference for peaceful solutions in politics.
  • The candidate's dovish stance was popular with voters.

Synonyms

• Peacemaker: A person who brings about peace.
• Pacificist (or Pacifist): A person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable.

Related Phrases

• To release doves: A ceremonial act symbolizing the hope for peace or a new beginning.
  • They released doves at the opening ceremony of the peace talks.

Related Idioms

• (As) gentle as a dove: Extremely gentle, mild, or innocent.
  • She may seem as gentle as a dove, but she's a fierce negotiator.

Noun

1. an emblem of peace
2. flesh of a pigeon suitable for roasting or braising; flesh of a dove (young squab) may be broiled
3. a constellation in the southern hemisphere near Puppis and Caelum
4. someone who prefers negotiations to armed conflict in the conduct of foreign relations
5. any of numerous small pigeons