Definition

1. Noun:
   • A graceful North American black-and-white kite: A specific species of raptor (bird of prey) known for its elegant flight, deeply forked tail, and distinctive black-and-white plumage.

Usage

• The word "swallow-tailed kite" is a compound noun used to name a specific bird species. It functions as a singular, countable noun.
• It is typically used in ornithological, wildlife, and birdwatching contexts to identify this particular bird.

Examples

• Noun:
  • We were lucky to spot a swallow-tailed kite soaring over the marsh.
  • The swallow-tailed kite is easily identified by its long, forked tail and contrasting colors.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used in a possessive form to describe attributes of the bird.
  • The swallow-tailed kite's primary diet consists of insects and small reptiles.

Variants and Related Words

• Swallow-tailed (adj): Having a tail that is forked or notched like that of a swallow. This adjective can describe other animals or objects (e.g., a swallow-tailed butterfly, a swallow-tailed flag).
• Kite (n): A broader term for various birds of prey in the family Accipitridae, known for their soaring flight. The "swallow-tailed kite" () is one specific type.

Synonyms

• Elanoides forficatus: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.
• Fork-tailed kite: A less common descriptive name referencing its tail shape.

Related Phrases

• To spot/see a swallow-tailed kite: A common phrase used in birdwatching.
  • Our goal for the trip was to spot a swallow-tailed kite.

Noun

1. graceful North American black-and-white kite