Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic family of birds: "family Columbidae" is the scientific name for the biological family that includes all doves and pigeons. These are stout-bodied birds with short necks and slender bills, known for their cooing calls.

Usage

• The term "family Columbidae" is used primarily in scientific, zoological, or ornithological contexts to classify and discuss these birds as a group.
• It is a formal, taxonomic term. In everyday language, people typically use the common names "doves" and "pigeons."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The rock dove, common in cities worldwide, belongs to the family Columbidae.
  • Ornithologists study the evolutionary history of the family Columbidae.
  • All species within the family Columbidae share certain skeletal features.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used to specify a rank (family) within the order Columbiformes.
  • The order Columbiformes contains only one family, the family Columbidae.

Variants and Related Words

• Columbidae (n): The standard form, often used without "family" in technical writing.
  • Columbidae comprises over 300 species.
• Columbid (n/adj): A member of the Columbidae family; relating to the Columbidae family.
  • The columbid species examined showed varied plumage. (Here, 'columbid' is an adjective).
  • This bird is a columbid. (Here, 'columbid' is a noun).
• Pigeon (n): A common name for many birds in the family Columbidae, especially larger species.
• Dove (n): A common name for many birds in the family Columbidae, often used for smaller species or those with a symbolic association with peace.

Synonyms

• Doves and pigeons: This is the common English description for the members of this family, not a direct scientific synonym.
• Columbiforms (n): This term refers to the entire order, which is essentially congruent with the family, as Columbidae is the only extant family in the order Columbiformes.

Related Phrases

• Member of the Columbidae: A phrase used to describe an individual bird's classification.
  • The mourning dove is a widespread member of the Columbidae.

Noun

1. doves and pigeons