Seagull Meaning and Definition
Seagull
Pronunciation
/ˈsiːɡʊl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of bird in the family Laridae, characterized by its gray and white plumage, distinctive calls, and scavenging behavior.
Examples
- The seagulls swooped down to steal food from the beachgoers.
- The seagulls squawked loudly as they landed on the ship’s deck.
Synonyms
- Herring Gull
- Kelp Gull
Antonyms
- Seabird
- Pelican
Additional Information
Seagulls are known for their opportunistic feeding behavior and can be found in coastal areas around the world. They are often considered pests by humans due to their scavenging habits.
Etymology
The word “seagull” is derived from the Old English words “se” meaning “sea” and “gull” meaning “bird” or “fowl”.
Usage Notes
The word “seagull” is often used to describe birds that are commonly found in coastal areas, but it can also refer to other birds that resemble seagulls in appearance or behavior.
Cultural References
Seagulls have appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. Perhaps the most famous example is the 1963 novel and film “Marnie” by Alfred Hitchcock, where a seagull plays a key role in the story.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
To cry like a seagull
Related Words or Phrases
- Bird
- Fowl
- Wading Bird
Collocations
- Seagull at the beach
- Seagull on the ship
Frequency of Use
Seagull is a moderately common word in everyday language, with a frequency of use of around 1.5% in written texts.
Common Misspellings
- Seagul
- Seagullean