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Definition of quetzal

quetzal

/kɛtˈsɑːl/
quet · zal
Plural:quetzals
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quetzal Lexical Profile

quetzal Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A strikingly colored bird of the trogon family, native to the tropical forests of Central America, noted for the male's iridescent green plumage and exceptionally long tail coverts.

Example

"The ancient Maya considered the resplendent quetzal sacred and used its brilliant tail feathers in royal headdresses."

2

The basic unit of currency in Guatemala, named after the country's national bird.

Example

"Before heading to the market in Antigua, she exchanged her dollars for quetzals."

• Rhymes for quetzal

• Nearby Words

questioningly
questionnaire
quetta
quetzal
quetzalcoatlus
quetzaltenango
queue

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish 'quetzal', which is derived from the Nahuatl word 'quetzalli', meaning 'large brilliant tail feather' or referring to the bird itself.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Quetzal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 11, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/quetzal
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