Search Dictionary
Definition of martin
martin
/ˈmɑːrtɪn/
mar · tin
Plural:martins
martin Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
6
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
martin Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
Any of various small, agile, insectivorous birds of the swallow family (Hirundinidae), characterized by their pointed wings and moderately forked tails.
Example
"Every spring, the purple martin returns to our backyard to build its nest in the hanging gourds."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for martinWord Nuance & Usage
Frequently confused with its homophone 'marten', which refers to a small carnivorous mammal of the weasel family, whereas a 'martin' is a type of bird.
• Rhymes for martin
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'martin', from Old French 'martin', most likely derived from the proper name Martin (possibly associated with Saint Martin's bird, as the bird migrates around Martinmas).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Martin. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/martin