frigate bird

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frigate bird

A frigate bird soars high above the tropical ocean.

Definition

Noun: A large, mostly black seabird found in tropical and subtropical oceans, characterized by an extremely long wingspan, a deeply forked tail, and a long, hooked bill. It is known for its exceptional soaring ability and for stealing food from other birds in flight, a behavior known as kleptoparasitism.

Usage

The term "frigate bird" refers specifically to the bird species within the family Fregatidae. It is used as a countable noun. - We saw a magnificent frigate bird circling high above the island. - Frigate birds are often seen riding thermal air currents.

Examples
  • The frigate bird is a master of the air, capable of staying aloft for weeks.
  • Male frigate birds have a distinctive red gular pouch that they inflate to attract females.
  • Observers watched as the frigate bird harassed a booby until it dropped its catch.
Advanced Usage
  • "To live like a frigate bird": An idiomatic expression suggesting a lifestyle of freedom, minimal effort for sustenance, or reliance on others' resources, derived from the bird's kleptoparasitic habits.
    • He doesn't cook; he just lives like a frigate bird, always showing up when his friends are eating.
Variants and Related Words
  • Frigatebird (Noun): A common alternative spelling, often written as one word.
  • Man-o'-war bird (Noun): A historical synonym for frigate bird.
  • Kleptoparasite (Noun): An organism that steals food from another; this term describes a key behavioral trait of the frigate bird.
Synonyms
  • Seabird: A general term for birds that live primarily on or near the sea.
  • Kleptoparasite: An animal that habitually steals food from others (describes behavior, not a direct synonym for the bird itself).
Related Phrases
  • "To have a frigate bird's wingspan": A hyperbolic phrase to describe something or someone with a very wide reach or influence.
    • The new policy has a frigate bird's wingspan, affecting departments across the entire organization.
Related Idioms
  • "As free as a frigate bird": Used to describe a state of complete liberty and lack of attachment.
    • After retiring, she traveled the world, feeling as free as a frigate bird.
frigate bird

A frigate bird soars high above the tropical ocean.

Noun
  1. long-billed warm-water seabird with wide wingspan and forked tail

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