Campbell
Campbell (noun) means a breed of domestic duck bred for heavy egg-laying, developed in England around 1900. Example: “The farm kept a small flock of Campbell ducks for their reliable egg output.”
How to use Campbell
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsually refers to the Campbell duck, a hardy egg-laying breed, though it is also a common surname.
Word forms
Campbells plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The farm kept a small flock of _____ ducks for their reliable egg output.
Etymology
From the Scottish surname Campbell, itself from Gaelic caimbeul, "crooked mouth". The duck breed was named after its developer, Adele Campbell.
Frequently asked questions
What does “Campbell” mean?
The word “Campbell” means a breed of domestic duck bred for heavy egg-laying, developed in England around 1900. In plain terms, usually refers to the Campbell duck, a hardy egg-laying breed, though it is also a common surname.
How do you pronounce “Campbell”?
“Campbell” is pronounced KAM-buhl (/ˈkæmbəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “Campbell” in a sentence?
Here is “Campbell” used in a sentence: “The farm kept a small flock of Campbell ducks for their reliable egg output.”
What part of speech is “Campbell”?
“Campbell” is a noun.
Is “Campbell” a common word?
“Campbell” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between a Campbell duck and a Khaki Campbell?
Campbell is the breed of domestic duck, and Khaki Campbell is its most familiar colour variety, named for its khaki-brown plumage. When people say 'Campbell duck' they usually mean the Khaki Campbell, though other colour varieties of the breed also exist.
Are Campbell ducks known for laying eggs?
Yes. The Campbell was specifically bred in England for heavy egg-laying, so it is kept mainly for egg production rather than for meat. This reputation as a prolific layer is the main reason the breed is valued by smallholders and backyard keepers.
Is 'Campbell' a duck breed or a surname?
It is both, and the meaning depends on context. As a common English and Scottish surname it refers to people, while in poultry terms Campbell names a specific breed of domestic egg-laying duck.
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