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Definition of bristlehead
bristlehead
/ˈbrɪs.əlˌhɛd/
bris · tle · head
Plural:bristleheads
bristlehead Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
11
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A rare, medium-sized passerine bird endemic to the rainforest canopies of Borneo, characterized by dark grey plumage, red thighs, and a bare red head partially covered in short, yellowish bristle-like projections.
Example
"Birdwatchers often endure rigorous treks through the Bornean jungle just for a chance to spot the elusive bristlehead."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined from 'bristle' + 'head', referring to the unusual, stiff, bristle-like feathers on the bird's crown.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bristlehead. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bristlehead