Search Dictionary
Definition of bushshrike

bushshrike

/ˈbʊʃ.ʃraɪk/
bush · shrike
Plural:bushshrikes
JUMP TO:

bushshrike Lexical Profile

• noun

1

Any of various medium-sized passerine birds of the family Malaconotidae, endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, typically characterized by brightly colored plumage, stout hooked bills, and a preference for scrubland or woodland habitats.

Example

"The vibrant green and yellow plumage of the gorgeous bushshrike makes it one of the most sought-after sightings for birdwatchers visiting East Africa."

Word Nuance & Usage

Though named for their superficial resemblance to true shrikes due to their hooked bills and predatory habits, bushshrikes belong to a distinct family (Malaconotidae) endemic to Africa.

• Nearby Words

bushman
bushmaster
bushmeat
bushshrike
bushtit
bushwalking
bushwhack

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of 'bush' and 'shrike', referring to their preferred scrubland and woodland habitats and their physical resemblance to true shrikes (family Laniidae).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bushshrike. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bushshrike
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.