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Definition of keel-billed toucan
keel-billed toucan
Plural:keel-billed toucans
keel-billed toucan Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
6
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A large, colorful tropical bird (Ramphastos sulfuratus) native to the rainforests of Central and South America, distinguished by its black plumage, bright yellow throat, and a massive, multi-colored beak.
Example
"While exploring the canopy walkway in Costa Rica, the researchers spotted a keel-billed toucan plucking fruit with its vibrant, oversized beak."
Word Origin & Etymology
The term 'keel-billed' describes the bird's massive beak, which features a prominent ridge resembling the keel of a ship. 'Toucan' originates from the Portuguese 'tucano', which is derived from the indigenous Tupi word 'tukana'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Keel-billed toucan. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/keel-billed toucan