noun

nightjar

NYT-jar

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Nightjar (noun) means a nocturnal bird from the family Caprimulgidae that feeds mainly on moths and other large flying insects. Example: “A nightjar swooped low over the field, snapping up moths on the wing.”

noun

A nocturnal bird from the family Caprimulgidae that feeds mainly on moths and other large flying insects.

"A nightjar swooped low over the field, snapping up moths on the wing."

"The reserve runs guided walks at dusk to listen for churring nightjars."

"Several nightjar species are found across different continents, all hunting after dark."

How to use nightjar

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA nightjar is a camouflaged night-flying bird best known for its odd, churring call.

When to use it

It's a specific ornithological term, used in birdwatching and nature writing rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

The plural is nightjars, and the bird is named for its call, not for anything to do with jars.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

nightingale →

Common pairings

hear a nightjar the nightjar's call a churring nightjar

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “nightjar” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

A _____ swooped low over the field, snapping up moths on the wing.

Etymology

The word joins night with jar in its old sense of a harsh, discordant sound. It was chosen because the bird's call is a rasping, churring noise rather than a typical birdsong.

Origin: English

Frequently asked questions

What is a nightjar?

A nightjar is a nocturnal bird that hunts moths and other large flying insects in the air after dark. It belongs to the family Caprimulgidae.

Why is it called a nightjar?

The name combines night with an old word for a harsh sound, referring to the bird's grating, churring call rather than a musical song.

What do nightjars eat?

They hunt moths and other large flying insects on the wing after dark.

What is the meaning of nightjar?

"nightjar" (noun) means a nocturnal bird from the family Caprimulgidae that feeds mainly on moths and other large flying insects.