goatsucker

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Word: Goatsucker

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A goatsucker is a type of bird that is mostly active during twilight (the time just after sunset and before sunrise) or at night. These birds have mottled (mixed and spotted) greyish-brown feathers and large eyes, which help them see well in low light. They primarily eat insects.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "goatsucker" when talking about this specific type of bird.
• It is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but you might encounter it in discussions about wildlife or birdwatching.

Example Sentence:

• "Last night, I saw a goatsucker flying around in the park, catching insects in the fading light."

Advanced Usage:

• In scientific contexts, you might refer to the goatsucker's behavior or habitat when studying nocturnal species or biodiversity.

Word Variants:

• Goatsuckers (plural): Refers to more than one of these birds.
• Goatsucker (common name): This term is used in scientific classifications as well.

Different Meanings:

• Historically, the name "goatsucker" comes from a myth that these birds would suckle from goats, which is not true. The name is more about their feeding habits rather than an actual action.

Synonyms:

• There are no direct synonyms for "goatsucker" in English, as it refers to a specific group of birds. However, you might hear related terms like "nightjar," which refers to a different but similar type of bird.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no well-known idioms or phrasal verbs that include the word "goatsucker."

Summary:

Overall, "goatsucker" is a specialized term used in ornithology (the study of birds) to describe certain nocturnal birds with unique characteristics.

Academic

Noun

1. mainly crepuscular or nocturnal nonpasserine birds with mottled greyish-brown plumage and large eyes; feed on insects

Synonyms

• nightjar
• caprimulgid