noun
redwing
RED-wing
Redwing (noun) means a redwing is a small Eurasian thrush, Turdus iliacus, marked by a white stripe over the eye and red feathers under the wing. Example: “Flocks of redwings arrive from Scandinavia to spend the winter here.”
noun
1
A redwing is a small Eurasian thrush, Turdus iliacus, marked by a white stripe over the eye and red feathers under the wing.
"Flocks of redwings arrive from Scandinavia to spend the winter here."
"We spotted a redwing feeding on berries at the edge of the hedge."
"The garden was full of redwings and fieldfares after the first frost."
2
A redwing is a red-winged blackbird.
"A redwing perched on the reed, showing off its bright shoulder patches."
"Marshland birders often hear the redwing's call before they see it."
How to use redwing
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA redwing is a small thrush named for the red patch under its wing.
When to use it
It is a plain, everyday name used mainly by birdwatchers and naturalists.
Memory tip
The name is literal, so picture red feathers under the wing to remember which bird it is.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
a flock of redwings
spot a redwing
redwings and fieldfares
migrating redwings
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Flocks of _____ arrive from Scandinavia to spend the winter here.
Etymology
Redwing is formed simply by joining red and wing, describing the bird's red underwing or shoulder markings.
Frequently asked questions
What does redwing mean?
It most often refers to a small thrush called Turdus iliacus, known for its red underwing feathers, though it can also mean a red-winged blackbird.
Where do redwings live?
The thrush called the redwing is native to Eurasia and migrates south in winter.
How can I tell a redwing from other thrushes?
Look for the white stripe above its eye and the reddish patch under its wing.
What is the meaning of redwing?
"redwing" (noun) means a redwing is a small Eurasian thrush, Turdus iliacus, marked by a white stripe over the eye and red feathers under the wing.
