Cockatiel

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˌkɒk.əˈtil/

Definitions

1. A small, colorful parrot endemic to Australia, recognized for its friendly nature and the ability to cheerfully mimic sounds while showcasing a range of color variations and a charming crest
2. Known for its sociable demeanor, this petite bird from Australia captivates with its playful antics and vocal mimicry, often featuring vibrant colors and an attractive crest
3. A lively parrot species native to Australia, this bird is distinguished by its vibrant plumage and a playful personality, often delighting owners with its ability to mimic various sounds and its charming crest

Etymology: The bird's name is probably a small Dutch joke on a larger one. "Kaketoe" was the Dutch word for the cockatoo, and "kaketielje" appears to be a diminutive of it, a little cockatoo for a smaller, slimmer relative. The cockatiel is indeed a close cousin of the cockatoos, but it is a far smaller bird, and the affectionate suffix fits that size difference neatly. The Dutch word may have a deeper ancestor. Cockatoos reached European ears through Portuguese traders, whose word "cacatua" was itself borrowed into Dutch and reshaped there. Dutch speakers may have added a diminutive ending to a Portuguese-derived form such as "cacatilho" or "cacatelho", though this link is less certain than the cockatoo connection. English took the word in the mid-nineteenth century, when Australian parrots were becoming known in Britain and Europe. The bird's name thus carries a faint trail of trade routes, from Portuguese ships to Dutch merchants to English aviary keepers, all attached to a small crested parrot from Australia.

Synonyms: bird, parrot, pet bird