Definition

A type of wading bird that is grayish-brown and has a white, streaked breast, commonly found in northern coastal areas.

Example

The whimbrel flew over the marsh, searching for food.

Conversation

Did you see that whimbrel at the beach yesterday?

Yeah, it was beautiful! I love watching those birds.

I didn’t know they were called whimbrels until recently.

They're fascinating, especially when they hunt for food in the sand.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'whimbrel' originates from Old English 'wimbrel', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*wimbraz', meaning a type of bird. The term specifically refers to a shorebird known for its long legs and distinctive curved bill.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'wimbrel' that directly names this specific shorebird, helping you remember that a whimbrel is a type of bird.

Visually Confused Words