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Glite Dictionary
Bombycillidae

Bombycillidae

9.9
A group of small songbirds like waxwings with soft feathers that live in the Northern Hemisphere
  • noun
  • /bɒmˈbɪsɪleɪdi/
  • Specialized
: Bombycillidae
  • The Bombycillidae family includes beautiful waxwings.

Examples

  • The Bombycillidae are known for their soft, silky plumage and are found across the Northern Hemisphere.

  • Members of the Bombycillidae display unique social and feeding behaviors among songbirds.

  • Scientists recently reviewed the evolutionary relationships within the Bombycillidae family.

  • Many species of Bombycillidae can be found in North America.

  • Members of the Bombycillidae family are often seen in large flocks during migration.

  • The Bombycillidae are known for their striking appearance and melodious songs.

  • Birdwatchers eagerly look for the Bombycillidae in various habitats, especially in forested areas.

Surface Forms

Bombycillidae singular
Bombycillidaes plural

Morphology

Bombycillidae = Bombycilla (opaque) = bombycilla + idae

The family-forming suffix '-idae' is a technical taxonomic marker; knowing the genus name alone does not let a general learner infer 'family of birds'.

Etymology

Bombycillidae comes from the old word bombyx, meaning 'silk', plus the scientific ending -idae, meaning 'family'. So the name pictures a 'silk family' of birds and helps you remember their soft, silky feathers.