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Definition of sunbird
sunbird
/ˈsʌn.bɝːd/
sun · bird
Plural:sunbirds
sunbird Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
8
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
sunbird Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
Any of numerous small, brightly colored passerine birds of the family Nectariniidae, native to Africa, Asia, and Australasia, characterized by long, slender, downward-curving bills adapted for feeding on floral nectar.
Example
"While hiking in the South African fynbos, we spotted a brilliant malachite sunbird probing the aloe flowers for nectar."
Word Nuance & Usage
Sunbirds are frequently confused with hummingbirds due to their similar ecological roles and iridescent plumage; however, sunbirds are native to the Old World and generally perch to feed rather than hover.
• Rhymes for sunbird
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
A compound of 'sun' and 'bird', likely coined in the late 18th or early 19th century in reference to the brilliantly iridescent, metallic plumage of the males that flashes brightly in sunlight.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sunbird. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sunbird