hummingbird

noun

hum·​ming·​bird ˈhə-miŋ-ˌbərd 

: any of a family (Trochilidae) of tiny brightly colored nonpasserine American birds related to the swifts that have a very slender bill and an extensible tongue for sipping nectar and that usually hover rather than perch when feeding

Illustration of hummingbird

Examples of hummingbird in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And the more affordable Oxygen Jungle Villas in Uvita has just 12 rooms, each with terraces from which guests can spot hummingbirds and toucans (from $155 per night). —Jen Murphy, Outside Online, 7 Oct. 2024

Its vibrant cap features representations of hummingbirds applied using traditional lacquering techniques. —Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 25 Nov. 2024

Now, the reserve has grown to 1,100 acres and the hummingbird’s habitat is recovering. —Karl Schneider, The Indianapolis Star, 25 Oct. 2024

Anna's hummingbird: This is a medium-sized hummingbird with iridescent green feathers on its back and head. —Shelby Slade, The Arizona Republic, 26 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1637, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hummingbird

• ruby-throated hummingbird

Kids Definition

hummingbird

noun

hum·​ming·​bird ˈhəm-iŋ-ˌbərd 

: any of numerous tiny brightly colored American birds related to the swifts and having narrow swiftly beating wings, a slender bill, and a long tongue for sipping nectar