Langimage
English

cockatoo

|cock/a/too|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈkɑː.kəˌtuː/

🇬🇧

/ˈkɒk.əˌtuː/

crested parrot

Etymology
Etymology Information

'cockatoo' originates from the Malay word 'kakatua', where 'kaka' meant 'parrot' and 'tua' meant 'old'.

Historical Evolution

'kakatua' was adopted into Dutch as 'kaketoe', and eventually became the modern English word 'cockatoo'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'old parrot', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a type of parrot with a crest'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a type of parrot native to Australia and nearby islands, known for its crest and loud call.

The cockatoo perched on the branch, showing off its colorful crest.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/12 03:55