Definition

Describing birds that do not belong to the passerine group, which includes most songbirds.

Example

The nonpasserine species, such as woodpeckers and pigeons, have different characteristics compared to songbirds.

Conversation

Have you seen any nonpasserine birds around here lately?

Not really, but I did spot a few woodpeckers yesterday.

Woodpeckers are interesting; they definitely are nonpasserine species.

Yeah, I love watching them work on the trees!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonpasserine → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "passerine" (from Latin "passer" meaning sparrow, referring to a group of birds). The word describes birds that are not part of the passerine group, which includes most songbirds.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning not, and 'passerine' referring to sparrows — so nonpasserine means not sparrows or not songbirds.

Visually Confused Words