Definition

Noun: A small, migratory songbird (Hirundo rustica) with a deeply forked tail, blue-black upperparts, and a reddish-brown throat and forehead. It is commonly found in North America and Europe and frequently builds its mud nests on human structures such as barns and eaves.

Examples of Usage

• The barn swallow darted skillfully over the field, catching insects in mid-air.
• We have a pair of barn swallows nesting above our garage door every spring.
• The rapid, acrobatic flight of the barn swallow is a familiar sight in rural areas.

Advanced Usage

• As a symbol: The barn swallow is often used as a symbol of spring, return, and good luck due to its predictable migratory patterns.
  • For sailors, a tattoo of a barn swallow traditionally symbolized a safe return home.
• In ecological context: Refers to an insectivorous bird that plays a role in controlling pest populations.
  • Farmers often welcome barn swallows as natural pest control.

Variants and Related Words

• Swallow (n.): The general term for birds in the family Hirundinidae, which includes the barn swallow, cliff swallow, and others.
• Hirundo rustica (n.): The scientific (Latin) name for the barn swallow.

Synonyms

• Chimney swallow (an older, regional name)
• European swallow (in some contexts)

Related Phrases & Idioms

• One swallow does not make a summer: This proverb, which uses the general term "swallow," cautions against assuming a single positive sign means a whole situation is good. The barn swallow is a classic example of the "swallow" referenced.
  • The first warm day is nice, but remember, one swallow does not make a summer.

Noun

1. common swallow of North America and Europe that nests in barns etc.