songbird
UK: ˈsɒŋbɜːd | US: ˈsɔːŋbɜːrd
n. a bird known for its musical vocalizations, often a small perching bird (e.g., a thrush or warbler).
n. (figuratively) a person who sings beautifully or is associated with music.
The word "songbird" is a transparent compound in English, combining "song" (from Old English sang, meaning "musical sound") and "bird" (from Old English bridd, originally meaning "young bird"). The term emerged in the 17th century to describe birds prized for their melodious calls, reflecting the cultural appreciation of avian music. The morphemes retain their original meanings, making the word intuitive for learners.
The forest echoed with the cheerful trill of a songbird at dawn.
She trained as an opera singer and became the songbird of her generation.
Ornithologists study songbirds to understand their complex communication.
The canary, a popular songbird, brightened the room with its melodies.
In folklore, the nightingale is the quintessential songbird of love and longing.