Word: Serinus canaria
Definition:
"Serinus canaria" is a scientific name for a small bird that is commonly known as the "canary." It is native to the Canary Islands and the Azores. Canaries are popular as pets, especially because of their beautiful yellow color and lovely singing.
Usage Instructions:
When you use "Serinus canaria," you are usually referring to the bird in a scientific or formal context. In everyday conversation, you would simply say "canary."
Example Sentence:
"The Serinus canaria is famous for its bright yellow feathers and melodious song, making it a favorite pet for many bird lovers."
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced discussions, you might talk about the canary's role in scientific studies or its symbolism in culture. For example, "In mines, canaries were used as an early warning system for toxic gases."
Word Variants:
- Canary: This is the common name used in everyday language. - Canaries: The plural form of canary.
Different Meanings:
1. Canary (noun): Aside from the bird, "canary" can also refer to a color (a bright yellow). 2. Canary (idiom): "Canary in a coal mine" is an idiom meaning a warning sign of danger.
Synonyms:
- Finch (in a broader sense, as canaries are part of the finch family) - Songbird (referring to their singing ability)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
- "Canary in a coal mine": This phrase refers to something or someone that serves as an early warning about potential danger. - There are no specific phrasal verbs directly related to "canary," but you might hear phrases like "sing like a canary," which means to tell secrets or inform on someone.