Troupials

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of brightly colored bird native to tropical regions, known for their striking plumage and melodious calls; members of a genus known for sociable behavior and distinctive, often orange and black, markings; tropical passerine birds sometimes kept as ornamental pets due to their vivid colors and lively nature
2. Tropical birds characterized by vivid coloration and a distinctive throat patch, often found in woodland or forest habitats; species within a genus of orioles displaying social tendencies and complex vocalizations; small to medium-sized birds valued for their ornamental appearance and presence in tropical ecosystems
3. Ornamental tropical birds noted for their bright orange, yellow, and black plumage and active social patterns; avian members known for their melodic songs and grouping habits in native tropical climates; species that inhabit forested areas and attract attention for their conspicuous coloration and lively demeanor

Etymology: "Troupials" is the plural of "troupial", a name for tropical New World birds that the French borrowed and English later adopted. The singular comes from French "troupiale", formed from "troupe", meaning "troop", because these birds move about in flocks. The name thus records a social habit rather than a physical feature: the birds were identified by how they gathered, not by their brilliant colouring.

Synonyms: oriole