dotterel
dotterel Lexical Profile
dotterel Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Australian Any of several related shorebirds and plovers found primarily in Australasia, such as the endangered New Zealand dotterel or the inland dotterel.
"Conservation efforts are underway to fence off the sandy beaches and protect the nesting grounds of the New Zealand dotterel."
A small Eurasian migratory plover that breeds on mountains and Arctic tundras, traditionally noted for its tameness and unwary nature.
"Birdwatchers hiked up the remote Scottish hills in hopes of spotting a breeding dotterel amidst the heather."
(Archaic) A foolish or easily deceived person; a dupe.
"The con artist considered the wealthy but naive young heir an absolute dotterel, ready to be separated from his fortune."
Word Origin & Etymology
Originates from the early 15th century, derived from the Middle English verb 'doten' (to act foolishly or dote) combined with the diminutive suffix '-rel'. The bird earned this name because of its notorious tameness and lack of fear toward humans, which historically made it exceptionally easy to catch.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.