whooper
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A common Old World swan (Cygnus cygnus) noted for its loud, whooping call. 2. A rare North American crane (Grus americana) having black-and-white plumage and a loud, trumpeting call.
Usage Examples
- We heard the distinctive call of a whooper swan flying over the lake.
- Conservation efforts are focused on protecting the habitat of the endangered whooper crane.
- The birdwatchers were thrilled to spot a whooper among a flock of more common swans.
Advanced Usage
- The term "whooper" is primarily used in birdwatching, ornithology, and conservation contexts. It is a common name for two distinct, large, vocal bird species. The specific species is usually clarified by the accompanying word "swan" or "crane."
- "Whooper swan": The full name for the Eurasian species.
- "Whooping crane": The full name for the North American species. This name is more commonly used than "whooper crane" alone.
Variants and Related Words
- Whoop (verb/noun): To utter a loud, excited cry or the cry itself. This is the source of the bird's name, describing its call.
- Whooping crane (noun phrase): The standard common name for .
- Whooper swan (noun phrase): The standard common name for .
Synonyms
- For : Cygnus cygnus, common whooper.
- For : Grus americana.
Notes on Different Meanings
The word "whooper" has two distinct zoological meanings: 1. A type of swan (Old World): A large, white swan with a black and yellow bill, known for its resonant, whooping notes. 2. A type of crane (North America): A tall, endangered crane with white plumage, black wingtips, and a red crown, known for its loud, trumpeting call. Context (geographic location or the words "swan"/"crane") is essential to determine which bird is being referenced.
Noun
- common Old World swan noted for its whooping call
- rare North American crane having black-and-white plumage and a trumpeting call