curlew

/'kə:lju:/

Thân thiện

A curlew wades in the shallow water, searching for food with its long, curved bill.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of large migratory shorebird: A curlew is a bird belonging to the sandpiper family (Scolopacidae). It is characterized by its long legs, mottled brown plumage, and most notably, a very long, slender bill that curves distinctly downward. Curlews are known for their haunting, bubbling calls and are typically found in wetlands, mudflats, and coastal areas.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • We spotted a curlew probing the mud for worms with its long, curved bill.
  • The mournful call of the curlew is a classic sound of the estuary at dusk.
  • Several species of curlew are considered threatened due to habitat loss.

Advanced Usage

• "Curlew" in ornithology and conservation: The term is often used in scientific and environmental contexts to discuss specific species (e.g., the Eurasian Curlew, the Long-billed Curlew) and their conservation status.
  • The Eurasian curlew is Europe's largest wading bird.

Variants and Related Words

• Curlews (n): The standard plural form.
• Curlew sandpiper (n): A related but distinct species of sandpiper with a slightly down-curved bill. (Note: This is a compound term listed separately as per instructions).

Synonyms

• Shorebird: A general term for birds that frequent shorelines.
• Wader: A general term for long-legged birds that feed in shallow water.

Related Phrases

• Curlew call: Refers specifically to the distinctive vocalization of the bird.
  • I recognized the area by the sound of the curlew call.

Related Idioms

Học thuật

Noun

1. large migratory shorebirds of the sandpiper family; closely related to woodcocks but having a down-curved bill