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Glite Dictionary
Spinus

Spinus

9.9
A group of small finch birds like siskins and goldfinches
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : Spinus
  • The American goldfinch is now classified as Spinus tristis in many ornithological references.

Examples

  • Recent studies have reclassified some siskins from the genus Carduelis to Spinus.

  • Recent studies have reclassified some siskins from the genus Carduelis to Spinus.

  • Several species within the genus Spinus are known for their vibrant yellow plumage.

  • The Spinus genus includes several species of small birds.

  • I saw a Spinus bird at the park yesterday.

  • Several species within the genus Spinus are known for their vibrant yellow plumage.

  • The American goldfinch is now classified as Spinus tristis in many ornithological references.

Synonyms

Carduelis
vsSpinus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of small finches that includes goldfinches and siskins

is narrower, covering mainly siskins and New World goldfinches

Compounds

Carduelis spinus
  • Specialized
9.9

A small yellow and black finch with a thin sharp beak often seen in Europe and Asia

Spinus pinus
  • Specialized
9.9

A small striped finch that lives in pine forests in North America

Surface Forms

Spinus singular
Spinuses plural

Etymology

Spinus comes from an old name for small finch-like birds and is used by scientists as the group name for birds such as the siskin and the American goldfinch. So, when you see Spinus in a bird name, remember it points to a small, often yellow, finch.