Definition

Noun: 1. A tropical American bird of the family Bucconidae: A puffbird is a small to medium-sized bird native to Central and South America. It is characterized by a large head, a stout bill, and soft, fluffy plumage that often gives it a "puffed-up" appearance. Puffbirds are insectivorous and typically perch quietly while hunting.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a puffbird perched motionless on a low branch in the Amazon rainforest.
  • The puffbird's large head and fluffy feathers help camouflage it against tree bark.
  • Ornithologists study the various species of puffbird found across the Neotropics.

Advanced Usage

• As a collective term: The word "puffbird" can refer to any member of the family Bucconidae, which includes several genera and species, such as the White-whiskered Puffbird or the Pied Puffbird.
  • The guide pointed out that the puffbird we saw belonged to the genus Malacoptila.

Variants and Related Words

• Bucconid (n): The scientific family name for puffbirds; a more technical term.
  • Bucconids are known for their sedentary hunting behavior.

Synonyms

• Bucconid: (Scientific synonym) A bird of the family Bucconidae.

Notes on Meaning

The definition provided focuses on the core physical characteristics (brownish, large head, fluffed feathers) and habitat (tropical America) of a typical puffbird. It is important to note that while many are brownish, plumage color can vary between species. The primary meaning is as a common name for this specific family of birds.

Noun

1. brownish tropical American bird having a large head with fluffed out feathers