Definition

1. Noun:
   • A family of passerine birds: Formicariidae is the taxonomic family name for a group of birds commonly known as antbirds. These are small to medium-sized, insectivorous birds found primarily in the tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The ornithologist specialized in studying the diverse species within the family Formicariidae.
  • Antbirds, belonging to the family Formicariidae, often follow army ant swarms to feed on insects flushed by the ants.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic context: Used in scientific literature to classify and discuss this specific bird family.
  • The phylogenetic study aimed to resolve the relationships within the family Formicariidae.

Variants and Related Words

• Formicariid (noun/adjective): A member of the family Formicariidae; pertaining to this family.
  • The guide pointed out a formicariid perched on a low branch.
• Antbird (noun): The common name for birds in this family.
  • We spotted several antbirds during the rainforest hike.

Synonyms

• Antbirds: The common English name for the family.
• Ant-thrushes (historical/less common): An older or alternative common name for some species within this group.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "family Formicariidae" is strictly a scientific, taxonomic designation. In everyday language, the common name "antbirds" is used. The name "Formicariidae" is derived from Latin roots related to ants, reflecting the birds' feeding behavior.

Noun

1. antbirds