redshank

/'redʃæɳk/

Thân thiện

A redshank stands in the shallow water at the edge of a marsh.

Definition

Noun: 1. A common Old World wading bird with long red legs: A redshank is a type of bird found in Europe and Asia, typically in wetlands and coastal areas. It is known for its distinctive long, bright red or orange-red legs and its loud, piercing call.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a redshank probing the mudflats for worms with its long beak.
  • The redshank's distinctive call is a reliable sound in the estuary.
  • A flock of redshanks took flight as we approached the marsh.

Advanced Usage

• "To run like a redshank": This is an old, chiefly British idiom meaning to run very fast or nimbly. It draws a comparison to the bird's quick, darting movements.
  • When he heard the bell, he ran like a redshank to get to class on time.

Variants and Related Words

• Common Redshank (): The full common name for the most widespread species.
• Spotted Redshank (): A related species with darker summer plumage.

Synonyms

• Wader: A general term for long-legged birds that feed in shallow water.
• Shorebird: A bird typically found along shores and wetlands.

Related Idioms

• Run like a redshank: To run very swiftly. (See Advanced Usage for example).

Học thuật

Noun

1. a common Old World wading bird with long red legs

Từ đồng nghĩa

• tringa totanus