Definition

1. Noun:
   • Family Podicipedidae: A taxonomic family of birds coextensive with the order Podicipitiformes. This family comprises aquatic diving birds commonly known as grebes.

Usage

• The term "family Podicipedidae" is used in formal scientific and ornithological contexts to classify a specific group of birds.
• It functions as a singular, proper noun referring to the taxonomic family.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The pied-billed grebe is a member of the family Podicipedidae.
  • Ornithologists study the unique mating rituals of the family Podicipedidae.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy, "family Podicipedidae" is a precise classification level (family) below order (Podicipediformes) and above genus (e.g., , ).
• The term is often used in contrast to other waterbird families, such as Anatidae (ducks) or Gaviidae (loons).

Variants and Related Words

• Podicipedidae: The standard form, often used without the word "family" in technical writing.
  • The Podicipedidae are characterized by their lobed toes.
• Grebes (common name): The vernacular term for birds in this family.
  • Grebes, family Podicipedidae, are excellent divers.
• Podicipedid (adjective/noun): Pertaining to or a member of the Podicipedidae.
  • Podicipedid behavior includes elaborate courtship displays.

Synonyms

• Grebes: The common English name for the birds constituting this family.
• Podicipedids: A scientific synonym referring to members of the family.

Related Phrases

• Order Podicipediformes: The taxonomic order that contains only the family Podicipedidae, making the order and family coextensive.
  • The order Podicipediformes is synonymous with the family Podicipedidae.

Noun

1. coextensive with the order Podicipitiformes