Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic order of birds: "Order Apodiformes" is the scientific classification for a specific group of birds, primarily comprising swifts and hummingbirds. These birds are characterized by their small size, rapid flight, and specific anatomical features like short legs.

Usage

• Scientific Classification: Used primarily in biological and ornithological contexts to categorize and discuss these bird families.
  • The order Apodiformes includes some of the world's most agile fliers.
  • Researchers studied the evolutionary history of the order Apodiformes.

Advanced Usage

• In Taxonomic Hierarchy: The term is used to denote a precise rank (order) within the biological classification system, above family and below class.
  • The families Trochilidae (hummingbirds) and Apodidae (swifts) belong to the order Apodiformes.

Variants and Related Words

• Apodiform (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the order Apodiformes.
  • The apodiform skeleton is adapted for fast, maneuverable flight.

Synonyms

• Apodiformes: As a scientific name, it has no true common-language synonyms. In informal contexts, one might refer to "swifts and hummingbirds" as the constituent members.

Notes on Meaning

• The term is a compound noun formed from "Apodiformes," which is its own single, fixed taxonomic name. It is treated as a singular entity (the order). It does not have phrasal verbs or idioms associated with it in general English usage.

Noun

1. swifts; hummingbirds