birdhouse

[ burd-hous ]

noun

, plural bird·hous·es [burd, -hou-ziz].

1. a box, usually fashioned to resemble a house, for birds to live in.
2. an aviary.

birdhouse

/ ˈbɜːdˌhaʊs /

noun

1. a small shelter or box for birds to nest in
2. an enclosure or large cage for captive birds; aviary

Word History and Origins

Origin of birdhouse¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; bird + house

Example Sentences

Building a birdhouse can provide a safe place to nest while encouraging them to visit your garden.

From Seattle Times

On dry land, pretend you’re back in summer camp and try archery, birdhouse decorating, baking classes and yoga.

From New York Times

When they reached the FARM, Sydney was looking at a Stevenson screen, a wooden box with slats that sat on a pole like an oversize birdhouse and held weather instruments.

From Literature

Zulkibli, 56, a government worker who built his giant birdhouse in the village of Perapakan in 2010, supplements his income by harvesting the swiftlets’ nests and selling them for export to China.

From New York Times

Notably, the flutterer made the gesture while facing her mate, not the birdhouse—which indicates she wasn’t merely pointing to the nest’s location, but rather conveying a message.

From Science Magazine