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jacksnipe

jacksnipe

9.9
A small, shy bird that lives and feeds in shallow wet places
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒækˌsnaɪp/
translation icon : agachadiza
  • Unlike other snipe species, the jacksnipe inflates its chest to attract a mate.

Examples

  • The jacksnipe is rarely seen except during its elaborate courtship display.

  • During the spring, birdwatchers often search wetlands for the elusive jacksnipe.

  • I spotted a jacksnipe near the river.

  • Have you ever seen a jacksnipe?

  • During our birdwatching trip, we spotted a jacksnipe hiding among the reeds near the pond.

  • The jacksnipe is known for its camouflaged feathers that blend well with wetland vegetation.

  • As we walked through the wetland, we heard the distinctive calls of the jacksnipe echoing in the distance.

Synonyms

Limnocryptes minima
vsjacksnipe
  • Specialized
9.9

A small bird with a short bill that lives in marshes and wetlands

is the common English name for the same small wetland snipe
half snipe
vsjacksnipe
  • UK
9.9

A small shy bird that walks in mud with a short beak

is the standard common English name rather than a variant name

Surface Forms

jacksnipe singular
jacksnipes plural

Morphology

jacksnipe = jack + snipe (transparent) = jack + snipe

Formed as a compound 'jack' + 'snipe' meaning a particular kind of snipe; learners who know 'snipe' will infer it is a type of snipe.

Etymology

The word jacksnipe probably comes from the simple parts jack and snipe; jack was often used to mean 'small' or 'male' and snipe is the wading bird, so jacksnipe helps you remember it is a small, hard-to-see wading bird.