sicklebill
sicklebill Lexical Profile
sicklebill Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of several hummingbirds of the genus Eutoxeres, native to Central and South America, characterized by a strongly decurved beak adapted for extracting nectar from distinctly curved flowers.
"The white-tipped sicklebill uses its highly specialized beak to feed on the nectar of Heliconia plants deep within the Neotropical rainforest."
A large bird of paradise belonging to the genera Epimachus or Drepanornis, native to the highland forests of New Guinea, noted for its long, curved beak and the elaborate courtship plumage of the males.
"During its spectacular courtship display, the male brown sicklebill expands its elongated flank plumes to attract females."
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed as a compound of 'sickle' and 'bill', referring to the distinctively long, crescent-curved shape of the bird's beak, which resembles the agricultural tool.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.