parrot
UK: ˈpærət | US: ˈpærət
n. a brightly colored tropical bird with a curved beak, known for its ability to mimic human speech
vt. to repeat or imitate (words or actions) mechanically without understanding
The word "parrot" likely originates from an imitative or onomatopoeic source, mimicking the bird's chattering sounds. The suffix "-ot" is a diminutive, common in Middle French (e.g., "perrot," a pet form of "Pierre"). The spelling evolved from Old French "perroquet" to English "parrot," reflecting the bird's vocal mimicry traits.
The parrot squawked loudly when the doorbell rang.
She taught her parrot to say "hello" in three languages.
He mindlessly parroted the politician's slogans without understanding their meaning.
A colorful parrot perched on the branch, preening its feathers.
The child parroted every word her older sister said.