Definition

Noun: 1. A type of bird: A tree swift is a bird belonging to the family Hemiprocnidae, found in Southeast Asia and the East Indies. They are distinguished from true swifts by having small, upright crests on their heads and by nesting in trees.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • We were lucky to spot a tree swift perched on a high branch in the rainforest.
  • Unlike common swifts, the tree swift builds its nest on a horizontal tree limb.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific context: The term is used in ornithology to classify and discuss this specific family of birds, often in contrast to the Apodidae (true swifts).
  • The study focused on the aerial feeding techniques of the tree swift.

Variants and Related Words

• Crested swift: Another common name for birds in the family Hemiprocnidae.
  • The crested swift is known for its distinctive profile.

Synonyms

• Crested swift: The most direct synonym.
• Hemiprocne (scientific genus name): Used in technical or taxonomic contexts.

Different Meanings

• This term has a single, specific zoological meaning referring to the bird family Hemiprocnidae. It is not used idiomatically or with other meanings.

Noun

1. birds of southeast Asia and East Indies differing from true swifts in having upright crests and nesting in trees