hummingbird
UK: ˈhʌmɪŋbɜːd | US: ˈhʌmɪŋbɜːrd
n. a small, brightly colored bird with a rapid wingbeat that produces a humming sound, known for hovering while feeding on nectar.
The word "hummingbird" is a compound of "humming" (derived from the Old English "hymmende," meaning "making a continuous droning sound") and "bird" (from Old English "brid," meaning "young bird"). The name reflects the distinctive humming noise created by the bird's rapidly beating wings (up to 80 times per second). The term emerged in the 17th century, combining auditory and zoological descriptors to capture the creature's unique behavior.
A ruby-throated hummingbird hovered near the feeder.
The hummingbird’s wings move so fast they are almost invisible.
She planted flowers to attract hummingbirds to her garden.
The hummingbird darted from blossom to blossom, sipping nectar.
We heard the faint hum of a hummingbird before spotting it.