鸰 (líng) - Wagtail — a type of small, slender bird

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Wagtail — a type of small, slender bird in the family Motacillidae, known for its constant tail-wagging motion.

Wagtail — a type of small, slender bird

Usage highlights

White wagtailWagtail birdWagtail's tailGrey wagtailYellow wagtail

Synonyms

  • 鹡鸰— wagtail (specific type, often with cultural connotations)
  • 鹊鸰— magpie and wagtail (compound term)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The wagtail (鸰) is a common sight near water bodies.
  • Birdwatchers spotted a white wagtail (白鸰) in the park.
  • The wagtail's tail (鸰尾) bobs constantly as it walks.

Collocations

  • White wagtail(白鸰)
  • Wagtail bird(鸰鸟)
  • Wagtail's tail(鸰尾)
  • Grey wagtail(灰鸰)
  • Yellow wagtail(黄鸰)

Idioms

  • Magpie and wagtail(鹊鸰)
  • Brothers in urgency(鹡鸰在原)
  • Magpie and wagtail announce good news(鹊鸰报喜)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese culture, the wagtail (particularly 鹡鸰) symbolizes brotherly affection and urgency, derived from classical texts.
  • The bird's constant tail movement is seen as a sign of alertness and vitality.
  • Often appears in poetic contexts as a metaphor for familial bonds and communication.

FAQ