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migratory quail

migratory quail

8.1
A small ground bird that moves long distances at certain times of year
  • noun
  • /ˈmaɪɡrəˌtɔri kwāl/
  • UK
translation icon : codorniz migratoria
  • Every spring, researchers track the migratory quail as it travels across Europe and Asia.

Examples

  • Habitat loss has significantly impacted the routes of the migratory quail.

  • The migratory quail flies south for the winter.

  • The migratory quail is prized among birdwatchers for its elusive nature and melodious call.

  • Many migratory quails can be seen in the fields.

  • Every spring, researchers track the migratory quail as it travels across Europe and Asia.

  • Habitat loss has significantly impacted the routes of the migratory quail.

  • The migratory quail flies south for the winter.

Synonyms

Coturnix coturnix
vsmigratory quail
  • Specialized
9.9

A small quail found in Europe, Asia, and Africa that moves long distances each year

focuses on seasonal movements and highlights that species in particular
Coturnix communis
vsmigratory quail
  • Specialized
9.3

A small brown bird that people hunt and that moves between areas each year

is a wider term stressing seasonal movements rather than the formal label

Surface Forms

Morphology

migratory + quail

The meaning 'a species of quail that undertakes seasonal migrations' is directly and compositionally derived from 'migratory' (undertaking seasonal migrations) + 'quail' (a small game bird). This standard adjective+noun pattern is cross-linguistically common and predictable, so a B1 learner who knows both words will readily understand the phrase.

Etymology

Migratory quail is named for the bird's habit of moving with the seasons. The word migratory shows that it travels at certain times of year and quail is the small ground bird, so the name means 'a quail that moves each season'.