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Glite Dictionary
vermillion flycatcher

vermillion flycatcher

9.8
A small bird from warm parts of the Americas whose male has bright red and black feathers
  • noun
  • /vərˈmɪljən ˈflaɪˌkætʃər/
  • US
translation icon : cazador bermellón
  • The male vermillion flycatcher dazzles observers with its bright red and black coloring.

Examples

  • In southern Texas, the vermillion flycatcher is considered a special find among migrants.

  • I spotted a vermillion flycatcher in the garden.

  • Birdwatchers were thrilled to spot a vermillion flycatcher perched near the riverbank.

  • The vermillion flycatcher is known for its vibrant colors.

  • Birdwatchers were thrilled to spot a vermillion flycatcher perched near the riverbank.

  • In southern Texas, the vermillion flycatcher is considered a special find among migrants.

  • The male vermillion flycatcher dazzles observers with its bright red and black coloring.

Surface Forms

vermilion flycatcher singular
vermilion flycatchers plural

Morphology

vermillion + flycatcher

The meaning 'a flycatcher with bright red/orange plumage' is directly and transparently derived from combining 'vermillion' (a bright red/orange color) with 'flycatcher' (a bird that catches flying insects). This simple color + noun descriptive composition is a common, cross-linguistic pattern, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents would readily infer the MWE's meaning even if they haven't seen the specific species name before.

Etymology

Vermillion flycatcher comes from two simple parts: vermillion meaning 'bright red' and flycatcher meaning 'a bird that catches flies'. Picture a small bright red bird catching insects, and that's why the name refers to this red bird found in parts of the Americas.