noun
twite
TWYT
Twite (noun) means a small finch that breeds across northern Europe and central Asia. Example: “A twite landed briefly on the fence post before flying off across the moor.”
noun
1
A small finch that breeds across northern Europe and central Asia.
"A twite landed briefly on the fence post before flying off across the moor."
"Twites often gather in small flocks to feed on seeds through the winter."
"Birdwatchers spotted a twite among the linnets on the hillside."
How to use twite
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA twite is a small finch found in the wild across northern Europe and central Asia.
When to use it
Twite is a standard ornithological name, used mainly by birdwatchers and naturalists.
Memory tip
The name comes from the bird's call, so it helps to say it the way it sounds: TWYT.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a flock of twites
a twite's call
twite population
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A _____ landed briefly on the fence post before flying off across the moor.
Etymology
Twite is thought to be an onomatopoeic word.
Synonyms
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mountain linnet
Rhymes for twite
See all rhymes for twite →Frequently asked questions
What is a twite?
A twite is a small finch, scientifically named Linaria flavirostris, that breeds in northern Europe and central Asia.
Is a twite the same as a linnet?
A twite is closely related to the linnet and is sometimes called the mountain linnet, but it is its own separate species.
Why is it called a twite?
The name is thought to copy the sound of the bird's call, so it is likely an onomatopoeic word.
What is the meaning of twite?
"twite" (noun) means a small finch that breeds across northern Europe and central Asia.
