kiwi

noun

ki·​wi ˈkē-(ˌ)wē 

1

: any of a small genus (Apteryx) of flightless New Zealand birds with rudimentary wings, stout legs, a long bill, and grayish brown hairlike plumage

2

capitalized : a native or resident of New Zealand

—used as a nickname

3

: kiwifruit

Illustration of kiwi

• kiwi 1

Did you know?

A kiwi is any of three species of chicken-sized, grayish brown flightless birds found in New Zealand. Their Maori name refers to the male's shrill call. Kiwis have vestigial wings hidden within the plumage; nostrils at the tip (rather than the base) of the long flexible bill; soft, hairlike feathers; and stout, muscular legs. Each of the four toes has a large claw. Kiwis live in forests, where they sleep by day and forage for worms, insects and their larvae, and berries at night. They run swiftly and use their claws in defense when cornered.

Examples of kiwi in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The palate features a lively acidity with passionfruit flavors, kiwi, and a touch of green pepper. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 25 Jan. 2025

Strawberries, along with rainbow kiwi and fuyu persimmons, are currently included in Ikigai’s omakase box, which changes seasonally. —Sarah Khan Jameson Montgomery Cathy Erway Lindsey Tramuta Jameson Montgomery Reggie Nadelson, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025

Studies show that increasing fiber intake (especially soluble fiber) may help with symptoms of IBS-C.4 Sources of soluble fiber include psyllium (available as a supplement), oats, figs, kiwis, and prunes. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025

Its tart taste also complements the flavor of strawberries, kiwis, and blueberries. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Ld, Health, 13 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Maori

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

kiwi

noun

ki·​wi ˈkē-(ˌ)wē 

1

: a flightless New Zealand bird with weak and undeveloped wings, stout legs, a long bill, and grayish brown hairlike feathers

2

: kiwifruit