Sparrows Meaning and Definition
Sparrows
Pronunciation
/ˈspærərz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small, often skylarking or chirping bird, typically with a brown or gray plumage, that nests on or near the ground.
Examples
- The sparrows flitted between the flowerbeds, searching for seeds.
- Sparrows are common visitors to backyard bird feeders.
Synonyms
- Lint
- Wren
Etymology
The word Sparrows originates from the Old English word “spar” or “sparrowe,” likely derived from the Proto-Germanic “*spariz” and ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European “*sparos.” The term has been used since the 13th century to describe these small birds.
Usage Notes
Sparrows are often used as a collective noun when referring to a group of birds. However, be aware that the term “sparrow” can be somewhat ambiguous, as it may refer to different species of birds.
Cultural References
Sparrows have appeared in various forms of media, such as literature, music, and art. For example, in the Bible, sparrows are mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew (10:29-31) as a symbol of God’s care.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Example: “As rare as a sparrow’s wing,” is an idiomatic expression used to describe something extremely rare or unlikely.
Related Words or Phrases
- Bird
- Feathered
Collocations
- Sparrow and nest
- Sparrow and seed
Frequency of Use
Sparrows are commonly used in conversation, especially in the context of nature, birdwatching, or gardening.
Common Misspellings
Sparwws, Sparow, Sparoow