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Definition of kingbird
kingbird
/ˈkɪŋ.bɜːrd/
Plural:kingbirds
kingbird Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
7
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
kingbird Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
American Any of various aggressive, insectivorous New World flycatchers of the genus Tyrannus, native to the Americas and known for their highly territorial behavior, often attacking much larger predatory birds that enter their breeding grounds.
Example
"While walking through the meadow, the birdwatchers watched a fearless Eastern kingbird relentlessly dive-bomb a passing red-tailed hawk."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for kingbird• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Originating in the late 17th century from the compounding of 'king' and 'bird'. The name likely alludes to the concealed, brightly colored crown-like patch of feathers on their heads, as well as their highly aggressive and domineering behavior in defending their territories against much larger birds.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Kingbird. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/kingbird