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Glite Dictionary
Tyrannus

Tyrannus

9.9
A group of large bold birds like the eastern kingbird that catch insects in the Americas
  • noun
  • /tɪˈrænəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Tyrannus
  • In the Americas, the Tyrannus birds often feed on insects, displaying their agility in flight.

Examples

  • Birdwatchers were excited to spot a Tyrannus flycatcher in the trees near the river.

  • Yearly averages vary, but Atlantic menhaden, B. tyrannus, may range from 100 to 150 g and Gulf menhaden, B. patronus, from 80 to 120 g in the bulk of the catch in a typical harvest season.

    Academic text (1991)

  • The Tyrannus genus includes several species that are known for their impressive hunting skills.

Synonyms

kingbird
vsTyrannus
  • US
8.9

A large American bird that catches insects and boldly chases away larger birds from its nest

is the genus of large aggressive insect eating flycatchers found mainly in the Americas

Compounds

Tyrannus tyrannus
  • Specialized
9.9

A large North American bird called the eastern kingbird that catches insects while flying

Tyrannus vociferans
  • Specialized
9.9

A grey bird with a yellow belly that lives in the southwestern United States

Surface Forms

Tyrannus singular
Tyrannuses plural
Tyranni plural

Etymology

Tyrannus comes from the old Greek word tyrannos, which means 'tyrant'. Because these birds are bold and aggressive when they defend their nests, the name fits and suggests their 'tyrant-like' behavior.