turtle-dove

A turtle-dove coos softly from a leafy branch.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of dove: "turtle-dove" refers to any of several Old World doves of the genus Streptopelia, especially Streptopelia turtur, known for its soft, purring call and often associated with romantic symbolism.
   • Symbol of love or fidelity: In literature and culture, a "turtle-dove" often represents faithful love, tenderness, or mourning due to its characteristic cooing and pairing behavior.

Usage Examples

• (Two doves of the species built a nest.)
• (The dove represents romantic sorrow.)
• (The soft call of this specific dove species.)

Advanced Usage

• "turtle-dove" as a term of endearment: Historically used to address a beloved person.
  • My turtle-dove, I cannot bear to be apart from you. (A poetic, affectionate form of address.)
• "turtle-dove" in ornithology: Used to distinguish this species from other doves, such as the collared dove or mourning dove.
  • The turtle-dove is distinguished by its reddish-brown back and black-and-white tail pattern. (A scientific description of the bird.)

Variants and Related Words

• Turtle dove (variant spelling): often written as two words, meaning the same bird.
  • We saw a turtle dove at the bird feeder. (Same species.)
• Turtledove (nonstandard variant): sometimes written as one word.
  • The turtledove is a protected species in some regions. (Alternative spelling.)

Synonyms

• Dove: a broader term for any bird in the family Columbidae, often used interchangeably with "turtle-dove" in casual contexts.
• Streptopelia turtur: the scientific name for the European turtle-dove.
• Ringdove: an older English name for certain doves, including the turtle-dove.

Related Idioms

• "To bill and coo like turtle-doves": to behave in a romantic, affectionate manner, often with soft murmuring.
  • The couple sat on the bench, billing and cooing like turtle-doves. (They were expressing love tenderly.)
• "Turtle-dove pair": a couple that is deeply devoted and inseparable.
  • They are such a turtle-dove pair, always together and supporting each other. (A loving, faithful couple.)