flycatching warbler
- noun
- US
:
curruca cazamoscas
- Unlike other warblers, the flycatching warbler frequently snaps up its prey in midair.
Examples
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The yellow-rumped flycatching warbler is often seen darting through the air in pursuit of insects.
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Many flycatching warblers migrate long distances to take advantage of abundant insect populations.
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The flycatching warbler is known for its acrobatic flying skills.
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Many flycatching warblers migrate south for the winter.
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Many flycatching warblers can be observed catching insects while hovering in the air.
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The flycatching warbler performs impressive aerial maneuvers to catch its prey.
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During the summer months, flycatching warblers are a common sight in gardens, darting to catch unsuspecting insects.
Synonyms
8
5.2
A small active bird that sings many clear notes
A small songbird with a yellow throat and streaked feathers found in western North America
A small songbird found in western North America with a yellow throat and rump
A small North American bird whose male has bright orange patches
A small North American bird with black and white feathers and a bright orange head and throat
A small European forest bird with pale yellow feathers and a clear trilling song
Surface Forms
Morphology
flycatching + warbler
The phrase is transparently compositional: 'flycatching' can be analyzed as 'fly' + 'catching' (catching insects in flight) modifying 'warbler' (a small songbird), so the overall meaning is literally a warbler that catches insects while flying. Even though 'flycatching' isn't listed, the constituent meanings combine via a regular modifier+noun pattern that a B1 learner who knows the parts would readily infer.
Etymology
Flycatching warbler comes from what the bird does: flycatching means catching insects in the air and warbler means a small songbird. So, it refers to 'a warbler that catches insects while flying'.