Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of small songbird: A "bullfinch" is a small, stout finch with a short, thick bill. The common European bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula) is known for the male's striking black, white, and grey plumage with a bright red or pinkish-red breast and cheeks.
   • A person's name: "Bullfinch" is the surname of Charles Bullfinch, a notable early American architect.

Examples

• Noun (Bird):
  • We spotted a pair of bullfinches feeding on buds in the orchard.
  • The male bullfinch has a distinctive red breast, while the female's is a more subdued brownish-pink.
• Noun (Person):
  • Bullfinch was the first native-born American to work as a professional architect.

Advanced Usage

• In ornithology: The term "bullfinch" can refer specifically to birds of the genus .
  • The Azores bullfinch is a critically endangered species.

Variants and Related Words

• Bullfinches (n): The plural form.
  • Bullfinches are often shy and difficult to observe.

Different Meanings

• Primary Meaning: The small passerine bird.
• Secondary Meaning: A historical surname, specifically referring to the architect Charles Bullfinch.

Synonyms

• Bird: There is no direct common synonym, but it is a type of finch.
• Architect: Charles Bullfinch (proper noun).

Idioms

• There are no common idioms specifically using the word "bullfinch."

Phrasal Verbs

• There are no phrasal verbs using the word "bullfinch."

Noun

1. common European finch mostly black and white with red throat and breast
2. United States architect who designed the Capitol Building in Washington which served as a model for state capitols throughout the United States (1763-1844)