Cockatoo - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A cockatoo is a type of colorful, noisy parrot native to Australia and nearby regions, known for its distinctive crest and playful, social nature. They are often kept as pets.
Definition:
A colorful, crested parrot native to Australia and nearby regions, known for its loud calls.
Synonyms:
parrot, macaw, lorikeet
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
(none applicable)
Common Collocations:
white cockatoo, sulfur-crested cockatoo, pet cockatoo, cockatoo feather, cockatoo screech
Derivatives:
cockatoos, cockatiel (related species)
Usage Tips:
Use "cockatoo" for crested parrots; avoid for non-crested birds like budgies or lovebirds.
Common Phrases:
mad as a cut snake (Australian slang), up a gum tree (Australian slang), feather duster (humorous)
Etymology:
Derived from Malay "kakatua," mimicking the bird's call; entered English via Dutch in the 17th century.
Examples:
- 1. The cockatoo perched on the branch, screeching loudly.
- 2. She adopted a sulfur-crested cockatoo as a pet last year.
- 3. Wild cockatoos often damage crops in rural Australia.
- 4. His colorful cockatoo feather collection filled a glass jar.