Definition

Noun: A nightjar is a type of bird that is primarily active during twilight (crepuscular) or at night (nocturnal). These birds are not songbirds (nonpasserine) and are characterized by their camouflaging, mottled greyish-brown plumage and notably large eyes. Their diet consists mainly of insects, which they catch in flight.

Usage and Examples

• General Use: The word "nightjar" refers specifically to the bird species belonging to the family Caprimulgidae.
  • We heard the distinctive churring call of a nightjar at dusk.
  • The nightjar's excellent camouflage makes it nearly invisible when it rests on the forest floor.

Advanced Usage and Context

• Scientific/Observational Context: The term is used precisely in ornithology and birdwatching to identify this family of birds.
  • The researcher studied the foraging behavior of the European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus).
• Descriptive Use: Can be used to evoke a specific atmosphere, often related to twilight, night, or wilderness.
  • The only sound in the deepening gloom was the repetitive call of a nightjar.

Variants and Related Words

• Goatsucker: An old, alternative common name for nightjars, based on the erroneous myth that they suck milk from goats.
• Nighthawk: In North American usage, "nighthawk" often refers to specific members of the nightjar family (e.g., the Common Nighthawk), which are more often seen in urban areas.
• Caprimulgidae: The scientific family name for nightjars.
• Nightjar is a compound word formed from "night" + "jar" (an old word meaning a harsh cry or sound), referring to their calls.

Synonyms

• Goatsucker (archaic)
• Fern-owl (a local/archaic British term)
• Night-hawk (for specific species, primarily in North America)

Related Phrases and Idioms

Note: "Nightjar" itself is not commonly used in idioms. However, its characteristics inspire descriptive phrases. - To be as camouflaged as a nightjar: To be very well hidden or blended into one's surroundings. - The soldier in the ghillie suit was as camouflaged as a nightjar.

Noun

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