kingbird

[ king-burd ]

noun

1. any of several American tyrant flycatchers of the genus Tyrannus, especially T. tyrannus eastern kingbird, of North America, known for their pugnacious disposition toward predators.

kingbird

/ ˈkɪŋˌbɜːd /

noun

1. any of several large American flycatchers of the genus Tyrannus, esp T. tyrannus ( eastern kingbird or bee martin )

Word History and Origins

Origin of kingbird¹

An Americanism dating back to 1770–80; king + bird

Example Sentences

Over the summer, expect to see goslings learning how to fly, blue-winged teals migrating south, and kingbirds and flycatchers gorging on insects.

From Washington Post

As golfers practice their putts, Rachman spots a trio of Cassin’s kingbirds perched at the top of a tall sycamore tree.

From Los Angeles Times

The holes in its interior plaster walls now make homes for barn swallows and western kingbirds.

From Washington Times

On a recent morning, Simons stood sipping from a steaming cup of coffee and noticed an eastern kingbird carrying something wiggly in its beak.

From Washington Times

Populations are increasing for species whose preferred habitats are in sync with the changing conditions, such as Cassin's kingbird, a southwestern native now expanding its range as Colorado and Wyoming warm up.

From National Geographic