Definition

Proper noun * Family Hirundinidae: The taxonomic family of birds comprising the swallows and martins. These are small, agile, passerine birds known for their graceful, sustained flight, often seen catching insects in the air. They typically have slender, streamlined bodies, long pointed wings, and short bills with wide gapes.

Usage

• The term "Family Hirundinidae" is used in formal ornithological and scientific contexts to classify and discuss this specific group of birds.
• It is often used when describing biological characteristics, evolutionary relationships, or taxonomic lists.

Examples

• The barn swallow and the purple martin both belong to Family Hirundinidae.
• A key characteristic of Family Hirundinidae is their adaptation for aerial feeding.
• The study focused on the migration patterns within Family Hirundinidae.

Advanced Usage

• In phylogenetic studies, Family Hirundinidae is placed within the order Passeriformes.
• The term is used in contrast to other bird families, such as Family Apodidae (swifts), which are convergent in appearance but not closely related.

Variants and Related Words

• Hirundinid (noun/adjective): A member of the Hirundinidae family; relating to this family.
  • The hirundinid species in this region are diverse.
• Swallow (noun): The common name for many species within Hirundinidae.
• Martin (noun): The common name for certain larger species within Hirundinidae, especially those of the genus .

Synonyms

• Swallow family: A common, non-scientific synonym.
• Hirundines: A collective term for birds of this family, used especially in British English.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• One swallow does not make a summer: This proverb, referring to a single member of this family, means that one positive sign does not guarantee overall success or that a trend has begun.

Noun

1. swallows and martins