nonpasserine bird

9.6

A bird that is not a songbird, for example an owl or a duck

noun
/nɒnˈpæsəraɪn bɜrd/

Specialized

: ave no paseriforme

Unlike sparrows, nonpasserine birds often have different foot structures and nesting habits.

Examples

Many nonpasserine birds are known for their vibrant plumage and unique calls.
The nonpasserine bird perched quietly on a branch, blending into the surrounding foliage.
The nonpasserine bird perched on the branch.
Many nonpasserine birds are colorful and vibrant.
Many nonpasserine birds are known for their vibrant plumage and unique calls.
The nonpasserine bird perched quietly on a branch, blending into the surrounding foliage.
Unlike sparrows, nonpasserine birds often have different foot structures and nesting habits.

Surface Forms

nonpasserine bird singular

nonpasserine birds plural

Morphology

nonpasserine + bird

The phrase is transparently compositional: 'nonpasserine' (not a passerine) combined with 'bird' yields 'a bird that is not a passerine (i.e. not in the order Passeriformes)'. Although 'nonpasserine' is specialist vocabulary, the negation prefix and head noun composition follow regular morphological patterns, so a learner who knows the constituent words can derive the meaning.

Etymology

The term nonpasserine bird comes from the parts non- (meaning 'not') and passerine (the sparrow-like, perching birds you often see on branches). So, nonpasserine bird means 'not' a perching, sparrow-like bird and helps you remember these birds often have different feet, nests, or brighter colors.