Definition

1. Noun:
   • A subfamily of birds: "Dacninae" is a taxonomic subfamily within the family Fringillidae (or sometimes considered within Thraupidae), commonly known as the honeycreepers. These are small, often brightly colored passerine birds found primarily in the Hawaiian Islands and parts of the tropical Americas, known for their varied beak shapes adapted for feeding on nectar, insects, and fruits.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The family Dacninae includes many species with spectacular plumage.
  • Biologists study the evolution of beak morphology in the family Dacninae.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic context: Used in scientific and ornithological writing to specify this particular bird group.
  • The assignment of certain genera to the family Dacninae is still debated among taxonomists.

Variants and Related Words

• Dacninae (n): The standard taxonomic name for the subfamily.
• Honeycreeper (n): The common name for birds within this group.
  • The 'I'iwi is a well-known honeycreeper from the Hawaiian Dacninae.

Synonyms

• Honeycreepers: The common name for the birds constituting this subfamily.

Notes

• This is a specialized scientific term. In non-scientific contexts, the common name "honeycreepers" is almost always used instead of "family Dacninae".

Noun

1. the honeycreepers