Search Dictionary
Definition of sulphur-crested cockatoo

sulphur-crested cockatoo

Plural:sulphur-crested cockatoos
JUMP TO:

sulphur-crested cockatoo Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A large, relatively common white cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) native to Australia, New Guinea, and some Indonesian islands, distinguished by a striking, bright yellow crest of feathers on its head and a loud, raucous call.

Example

"During our hike through the Dandenong Ranges, a flock of sulphur-crested cockatoos flew overhead, their bright yellow crests flashing in the sunlight."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sulphur-crested cockatoo

• Nearby Words

sulak
sulcata tortoise
sulfur
sulphur-crested cockatoo
sultana
sumac
sumatra barb

Word Origin & Etymology

The term combines 'sulphur', referencing the distinctive pale yellow color of its crest, and 'cockatoo', derived from the Malay 'kakatua', which is either imitative of the bird's call or literally translates to 'older sibling' or 'old father' (kaka tua).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sulphur-crested cockatoo. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sulphur-crested cockatoo
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.