Bantam Meaning and Definition
Bantam
Pronunciation
/ˈbæntəm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A breed of small domestic chicken, originally bred from the Silkie, and known for its unique appearance with a fluffy, soft feather.
Examples
- The farmer raised a few Bantam chickens in her backyard.
- Bantams are popular pets due to their friendly and outgoing nature.
Synonyms
- Chicken
- Fowl
Antonyms
- Large
- Raptor
Etymology
The word “Bantam” comes from the city of Bantam, located in present-day Java, Indonesia, where the breed originated.
Usage Notes
Bantam is often used to describe a small or miniature version of something, especially when referring to animals or furniture.
Cultural References
Bantams are featured in several cultures and mythologies, including the Japanese manga and anime series “Naruto”, where the character Rock Lee is often referred to as the “Bantam of the Hidden Leaf”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Bantam-weight” is often used to describe something or someone that is small and lightweight.
Related Words or Phrases
Related words include “chick”, “cluck”, and “peck”.
Collocations
Bantam often collocates with words such as “chicken”, “farm”, “backyard”, and “pet”.
Frequency of Use
Bantam is a relatively uncommon word in modern language, but its usage has been increasing in recent years due to its unique characteristics and popularity as a pet.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings include “Bantom”, “Bantum”, and “Bentum”.