kingfisher

noun

king·​fish·​er ˈkiŋ-ˌfi-shər 

: any of numerous nonpasserine birds (family Alcedinidae) that are usually crested and bright-colored with a short tail and a long stout sharp bill

Examples of kingfisher in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

From Velcro inspired by burrs to bullet trains shaped by kingfisher beaks, the natural world often holds solutions to human challenges. —Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025

Another nine Guam kingfishers are slated to arrive this summer, for release in the fall. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025

Taking its name from a terrestrial kingfisher with a distinctive call, the Kookaburra is designed by Australian firm Unplgd Tiny Homes and is based on a triple-axle trailer and finished in wood, with metal accenting. —Adam Williams, New Atlas, 30 Mar. 2025

Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains were modeled after the streamlined beak of the kingfisher to reduce noise and improve efficiency. —Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 26 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing kingfisher

• belted kingfisher

Rhymes for kingfisher

• commissure
• fissure
• swisher
• wisher

Kids Definition

kingfisher

noun

king·​fish·​er -ˌfish-ər 

: any of various bright-colored birds with a short tail, a long stout sharp bill, and usually a crest on the head