peacock
/'pi:kɔk/
Definition
- Noun:
- A large male bird of the pheasant family: A peacock is the male of the peafowl species, known for its extravagant, long tail feathers that can be fanned out in a spectacular display. These tail feathers are marked with iridescent, eye-like spots.
- A European butterfly: A type of butterfly with reddish-brown wings, each featuring a distinctive purple eyespot.
Examples of Usage
- Noun (Bird):
- The peacock displayed its magnificent tail to attract the peahen.
- We could hear the loud call of the peacock from the garden.
- Noun (Butterfly):
- A peacock butterfly landed on the buddleia bush.
Advanced Usage
- "Proud as a peacock": An idiom describing someone who is extremely proud, arrogant, or vain, often showing off.
- He was as proud as a peacock after winning the award.
Variants and Related Words
- Peafowl (n): The general name for the bird species, which includes both the male (peacock) and the female (peahen).
- Peahen (n): The female peafowl, which lacks the long, ornate tail of the male.
- Peacock blue (adj/n): A brilliant greenish-blue color, resembling the hue of a peacock's neck feathers.
Synonyms
- Exhibitionist (when referring to a vain person metaphorically): One who behaves in a way intended to attract attention.
- Dandy: A man unduly concerned with looking stylish and fashionable; a fop.
Related Verbs (Historical/Literary Usage)
- To peacock (verb, intransitive): To strut about in a vain or showy manner. (This usage is now rare or literary).
- He peacocked around the room, showing off his new suit.
- To peacock oneself (verb, reflexive, archaic): To pride or plume oneself on something.
- He peacocked himself upon his wealth.
Noun
-
male peafowl; having a crested head and very large fanlike tail marked with iridescent eyes or spots
-
European butterfly having reddish-brown wings each marked with a purple eyespot
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