Definition

Noun: - A thrush-like American songbird known for its ability to mimic the songs and calls of other birds.

Usage

• The term "mocking thrush" is used to refer to specific bird species, particularly within the genus , that are native to the Americas and are skilled vocal mimics.
• It is a compound noun. The primary word is "thrush," modified by "mocking" to describe its characteristic behavior.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in ornithological contexts to describe the bird's mimicry behavior as a form of complex communication or territorial display.
• While "mocking thrush" can be used, the more common modern term for birds in this family (Mimidae) is mockingbird.

Variants and Related Words

• Mockingbird (n): The more prevalent common name for birds of the family Mimidae, especially the Northern Mockingbird (). This is essentially a synonym for "mocking thrush."
• Mimic thrush (n): An alternative, older name for birds in the Mimidae family, highlighting their mimicry.

Synonyms

• Mimic thrush
• Mockingbird

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically denotes a type of songbird, not a true thrush (family Turdidae). The "thrush-like" description refers to its general size and appearance, not its taxonomic classification.
• Its defining characteristic is the ability to mimic a wide variety of sounds from its environment.

Noun

1. thrush-like American songbird able to mimic other birdsongs