Langimage
English

ptarmigan

|ptar/mi/gan|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈtɑːrmɪɡən/

🇬🇧

/ˈtɑːmɪɡən/

cold-region bird

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ptarmigan' originates from Scottish Gaelic, specifically the word 'tarmachan', where 'tarmach' meant 'croaker'.

Historical Evolution

'tarmachan' changed from the Scottish Gaelic word 'tarmachan' and eventually became the modern English word 'ptarmigan'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'croaker', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a bird species'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a type of bird found in cold regions, known for its seasonal plumage changes.

The ptarmigan is well adapted to the harsh Arctic environment.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/23 17:52