Pacific tree toad
- noun
- /pəˈsɪfɪk tri toʊd/
- US
:
sapo de árbol del Pacífico
- The distinct sound of the Pacific tree toad is often associated with spring on the West Coast.
Examples
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On our hike, we heard the Pacific tree toad calling from the marsh.
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Researchers study the Pacific tree toad to monitor environmental changes in the region.
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The Pacific tree toad is known for its unique call.
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I heard a Pacific tree toad last night.
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While camping near the river, we were delighted to hear the Pacific tree toad calling in the evening.
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The Pacific tree toad can be recognized by its distinctive call echoing through the wetlands.
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During our nature walk, we spotted a Pacific tree toad perched on a leaf, making its characteristic sounds.
Synonyms
4
3.4
A small frog that lives in trees with sticky pads on its toes for climbing
1
6.0
A small animal like a frog that lives in trees and has sticky pads on its toes
Surface Forms
Morphology
The phrase is a straightforward adjectival description: 'Pacific' gives the regional location and 'tree toad' describes a toad that lives in trees. A B1 learner who knows the constituent words can infer it refers to a toad species found in tree habitats along the Pacific coast, with no idiomatic or metaphorical shift.
Etymology
Pacific tree toad gets its name from the parts of the phrase: Pacific for the coast where it lives, tree because it often calls from trees and bushes, and toad for its rough skin and low 'croak'. So the name helps you picture and hear this small 'frog' found along the Pacific coast.