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Definition of marabou
marabou
/ˈmær.ə.buː/
mar · a · bou
Plural:marabous
marabou Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
marabou Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The soft, fluffy down or feathers obtained from the tail and wings of the marabou stork, traditionally used in millinery and as trimming for garments.
Example
"The vintage burlesque dancer draped a luxurious boa made of pink marabou over her shoulders."
2
A large scavenging stork native to sub-Saharan Africa, characterized by a naked head and neck, a massive bill, and a large pendulous throat pouch.
Example
"During the dry season, a large flock of marabous gathered near the shrinking watering hole to scavenge."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for marabouWord Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from French 'marabout', ultimately from Arabic 'murābiṭ' (hermit, Muslim holy man). The bird was given this name due to its bald head and solemn, quiet demeanor, which was thought to resemble an old, solitary holy man.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Marabou. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/marabou