Definition

Noun: 1. A small North American songbird: The ruby-crowned kinglet is a very small, active, olive-green songbird. It is known for its constant, flickering wing movements and its remarkably loud, complex song for its size. 2. Distinctive physical feature: The name refers to the male's crown, which has a patch of brilliant red feathers. This crown is usually concealed and is only flashed prominently during courtship or when the bird is agitated.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a ruby-crowned kinglet flitting through the oak branches.
  • The ruby-crowned kinglet is often heard before it is seen due to its loud, warbling song.
  • Look closely; if you see a flash of red, it's a male ruby-crowned kinglet.

Advanced Usage

• "Kinglet" as a taxonomic group: The term "kinglet" refers to birds in the genus . The ruby-crowned kinglet's scientific name is .
• Birdwatching context: In field guides and among birders, it is often abbreviated in notes as "RCKI."

Variants and Related Words

• Golden-crowned kinglet (n): A closely related species () that has a bright yellow and orange crown stripe.
• Kinglet (n): The general term for any small bird in the genus .
• Warbler (n): While not a true warbler, its behavior and size often lead birdwatchers to initially confuse it with warblers.

Synonyms

• Songbird: A general term for a passerine bird known for its vocalizations.
• Regulus calendula: The scientific, Latin name for the species.

Related Phrases

• Crown patch: The specific area of colored feathers on the top of a bird's head.
• Flicking its wings: A common behavioral description for this species, referring to its characteristic rapid wing movements while foraging.

Noun

1. American kinglet with a notable song and in the male a red crown patch