Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
genus Caprimulgus

genus Caprimulgus

9.9
A group of related nightjar birds that are active at night
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛnəs ˈkæprɪˌmʌlɡəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : género Caprimulgus
  • The genus Caprimulgus is characterized by cryptic plumage and nocturnal habits.

Examples

  • The genus Caprimulgus includes several species of nightjars found across Europe and Asia.

  • Researchers have discovered a new species within the genus Caprimulgus in Southeast Asia.

  • The genus Caprimulgus includes various species of nightjars.

  • Did you know that the genus Caprimulgus is known for its nocturnal habits?

  • Researchers have discovered a new species within the genus Caprimulgus in Southeast Asia.

  • The genus Caprimulgus includes several species of nightjars found across Europe and Asia.

  • The genus Caprimulgus is characterized by cryptic plumage and nocturnal habits.

Synonyms

Caprimulgus
vsgenus Caprimulgus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of birds called nightjars that are active at night

is the same taxonomic concept phrased with slightly different wording

Surface Forms

genus Caprimulgus singular
genera Caprimulgus plural

Morphology

genus + Caprimulgus

This is a straightforward compositional NP: 'genus' (a biological rank) combined with the proper name 'Caprimulgus' yields the taxonomic group called Caprimulgus. The structure 'genus + name' is a regular, cross-linguistic naming pattern, so a learner who knows both constituents will readily infer the meaning.

Etymology

Genus Caprimulgus gets its name from old Latin words capri and mulgus, which mean 'goat' and 'milk'. One popular story says people long ago thought these quiet night birds drank milk from goats at night, so the name stuck and now refers to this group of nightjars.