ringdove
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A Eurasian pigeon (Columba palumbus) characterized by distinctive white patches on its wings and neck. It is a common wild pigeon in Europe. 2. A greyish Old World turtledove (genus Streptopelia, especially Streptopelia risoria or related species) distinguished by a black band around the neck. This variety is often kept in captivity.
Usage Examples
- The ringdove is a frequent visitor to our garden, easily identified by the white markings on its wings.
- In the aviary, they keep several ringdoves, which are known for their gentle cooing and the dark collar on their necks.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used in literary or poetic contexts to symbolize peace, gentleness, or love, drawing from its association with doves in general.
- The poet described the sound of the ringdove as a lament for lost tranquility.
Variants and Related Words
- Woodpigeon: A common name for the Eurasian ringdove ().
- Collar-dove: A descriptive name referencing the neck band.
- Turtledove: A general term for doves of the genus , to which the second type of ringdove belongs.
Synonyms
- (For ): Woodpigeon, Cushat.
- (For species): Collared dove, Turtledove.
Notes on Different Meanings
The word "ringdove" refers to two distinct but similar-looking birds: 1. The primary meaning in many contexts, especially European, is the common woodpigeon, a larger, wild bird with white wing patches. 2. The second meaning refers to smaller, often domesticated doves characterized by a black "ring" or half-collar on the nape. Context usually clarifies which species is intended.
Noun
- Eurasian pigeon with white patches on wings and neck
- greyish Old World turtledove with a black band around the neck; often caged