Langimage
English

bird-of-paradise

|bird-of-par-a-dise|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌbɜrd əv ˈpærəˌdaɪs/

🇬🇧

/ˌbɜːd əv ˈpærədaɪs/

exotic beauty

Etymology
Etymology Information

'bird-of-paradise' originates from the English phrase 'bird of paradise,' referring to the bird's perceived beauty and exotic nature.

Historical Evolution

The term 'bird-of-paradise' was adopted into English from the Latin 'paradīsus,' meaning 'paradise,' reflecting the bird's heavenly appearance.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to the bird's beauty, but it also came to describe a plant with similar aesthetic qualities.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a type of bird known for its vibrant plumage and elaborate courtship displays, native to New Guinea and surrounding islands.

The bird-of-paradise is famous for its colorful feathers.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a tropical plant with striking flowers resembling the plumage of the bird-of-paradise, belonging to the genus Strelitzia.

The bird-of-paradise plant adds a tropical touch to the garden.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/06/02 23:52