quail-call
Definition
- Noun:
- A device or sound used to imitate the call of a quail: "quail-call" refers to a whistle, pipe, or other instrument that produces a sound resembling the natural call of a quail. It is commonly used by hunters or birdwatchers to attract quail for trapping, observation, or hunting.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The hunter used a quail-call to lure the birds into the open field. (A device that imitates a quail's call.)
- She practiced her quail-call every morning until she could perfectly mimic the sound. (The sound produced by imitating a quail.)
Advanced Usage
"to sound a quail-call": to produce the imitation sound for a specific purpose.
- The birdwatcher sounded a quail-call to see if any quail would respond. (He made the sound to attract quail.)
"quail-call pipe": a specific type of whistle or pipe designed for this purpose.
- The old quail-call pipe was carved from wood and had a sweet, clear tone. (A traditional instrument for imitating quail calls.)
Variants and Related Words
Quail (n): a small, plump game bird of the pheasant family.
- The quail is known for its distinctive call and ground-nesting habits. (The bird itself.)
Call (n): a vocal sound made by a bird or animal.
- The call of the quail is a clear, whistling sound. (The natural sound of the bird.)
Quail-caller (n): a person who uses a quail-call.
- The experienced quail-caller knew the best times to use the device. (A hunter or birdwatcher skilled in using the call.)
Synonyms
- Bird call: a general term for any device or sound used to imitate a bird's vocalization.
- Whistle: a simple instrument that produces a high-pitched sound, often used for imitating birds.
- Lure: something used to attract animals, including sounds or devices.
Related Idioms
- "To call in a quail": to successfully attract a quail using a call.
- With his expert quail-call, he could call in a quail from half a mile away. (To lure a quail closer.)
Phrasal Verbs