Definition

1. Noun:
   • A young bird that has not yet developed the feathers necessary for flight: This term specifically refers to a nestling, a bird that is still too young to leave the nest.

Usage

• The term "baby bird" is a common, informal compound noun used to describe the early life stage of a bird. It is often used in general conversation, children's literature, and educational contexts to refer to hatchlings and nestlings.

Examples

• Noun:
  • We found a baby bird that had fallen from its nest.
  • The mother bird returns to feed the baby bird several times an hour.

Advanced Usage

• While "baby bird" itself is a straightforward term, it can be used metaphorically to describe someone who is inexperienced, naive, or in need of care and protection.
  • On his first day, the new intern was like a baby bird, needing guidance for every task.

Variants and Related Words

• Nestling (n): A young bird that has not yet left the nest. This is a more formal or zoological synonym.
• Hatchling (n): A very recently hatched baby bird.
• Fledgling (n): A young bird that has just developed its flight feathers and is learning to fly. This is a distinct, subsequent stage to a "baby bird."

Synonyms

• Nestling: A young bird that remains in the nest.
• Chick: A common term for a young bird, especially of domestic fowl or seabirds.

Antonyms

• Adult bird: A fully mature bird.
• Fledgling: While a related term, it is often contrasted with a flightless nestling or "baby bird."

Noun

1. young bird not yet fledged