Definition of hummingbird

Short definition: The word hummingbird refers to a tiny, fast-moving bird that can hover in the air while feeding on nectar, often symbolizing energy, lightness, and precision because of its quick movements and delicate appearance.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word hummingbird? The word hummingbird refers to a very small bird known for its speed, bright colors, and ability to hover in the air. It is often mentioned in nature writing, documentaries, and everyday descriptions of wildlife. Many people are fascinated by hummingbirds because of how fast their wings move and how delicate they appear. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and informative.

hummingbird n. /ˈhʌmɪŋbɜːrd/

Forms: hummingbird, hummingbirds
Related: bird n., nectar n., wing n.
Syllable: hum-ming-bird

  1. (Noun) A very small bird that can hover in the air and move its wings extremely fast.

    A hummingbird is a tiny bird found mainly in the Americas, famous for its rapid wing movement that creates a humming sound, allowing it to hover, fly backward, and drink nectar from flowers with great precision.

    The hummingbird hovered in front of the flower for several seconds, drinking nectar while its wings moved so fast they looked invisible.
    She watched a hummingbird dart between plants in the garden, amazed by its speed and bright colors.
    A documentary explained how a hummingbird’s heart beats extremely fast to support its intense flying style.

    Synonyms: nectar bird, tiny bird, hovering bird, fast winged bird, small tropical bird, colorful bird species, fast flying bird, flower feeding bird, delicate bird, rapid flyer, small nectar feeder, wing humming bird
    Antonyms: large bird, slow flying bird, ground bird, flightless bird, heavy bird, land based bird, walking bird, non hovering bird, big species, slow mover, grounded animal, non flying animal

  2. (Noun) A symbol of speed energy or lightness in writing and speech.

    In a figurative sense, a hummingbird can symbolize quick movement, high energy, or a light and lively presence, often used in poetry or descriptive language to suggest delicacy combined with strength.

    She moved through the room like a hummingbird, full of energy and never staying in one place for long.
    His thoughts jumped from idea to idea like a hummingbird visiting different flowers.
    The writer described the city lights as hummingbirds flashing through the night.

    Synonyms: symbol of speed, image of energy, lively presence, quick mover, energetic figure, fast symbol, light motion image, rapid movement symbol, lively image, energetic comparison, quick image, fast paced symbol
    Antonyms: symbol of slowness, heavy presence, stillness image, slow movement symbol, calm figure, grounded image, fixed presence, low energy symbol, steady motion, unmoving figure, static image, slow paced symbol

An Explanation of the Word "hummingbird" in an Image

A close-up of a hummingbird flying near bright flowers, showing its shimmering green feathers, long beak, and fast-moving wings against a soft garden background.
A vibrant hummingbird hovers gracefully in midair, sipping nectar from colorful flowers, highlighting its iridescent feathers and the delicate beauty of nature in motion.

Conversation Using the Word Hummingbird

The following conversation takes place between two neighbors standing in a garden. It shows how the word hummingbird is used naturally when talking about nature, observation, and everyday outdoor experiences.

The conversation reflects how people often describe hummingbirds with curiosity and appreciation because of their speed, color, and unusual flying ability.

Claire: Did you just see that hummingbird near the flowers?

Michael: Yes, it was hovering right in front of the feeder.

Claire: I can’t believe how fast its wings were moving.

Michael: That’s what amazes me about a hummingbird, it never seems to slow down.

Claire: It feels special every time one visits the garden.

Michael: I agree, a hummingbird visit always makes the day feel a bit brighter.

Claire: I wish they stayed longer.

Michael: Even a few seconds is enough to remember them.

Phrases Containing the Word Hummingbird

The phrases below show how the word hummingbird is commonly used when talking about nature, movement, speed, and delicate beauty.

Hummingbird wings

The rapidly moving wings.

The hummingbird wings moved so fast that they looked almost invisible in the sunlight.

Hummingbird flight

The way it moves in the air.

Hummingbird flight is unique because the bird can hover and even move backward.

Hummingbird feeder

A container for nectar.

She placed a hummingbird feeder near the window to watch them up close.

Hummingbird nectar

The food it drinks.

The hummingbird nectar provides the energy needed for constant movement.

Hummingbird habitat

The natural environment.

The hummingbird habitat includes gardens, forests, and areas rich in flowers.

Hummingbird wingspan

The width of its wings.

Despite its tiny size, the hummingbird wingspan allows precise control in flight.

Hummingbird movement

Fast and agile motion.

Hummingbird movement is quick and unpredictable, making it hard to follow with the eye.

Hummingbird species

Different types.

There are many hummingbird species, each with slightly different colors and sizes.

Hummingbird observation

Watching the bird.

Hummingbird observation requires patience because they rarely stay still.

Hummingbird garden

A flower-filled space.

A hummingbird garden is designed to attract them with bright flowers and nectar.

Hummingbird energy

High level of activity.

The hummingbird energy level is extremely high compared to most birds.

Hummingbird sound

The buzzing noise.

The hummingbird sound came from its wings rather than its voice.

Hummingbird feeding

The act of drinking nectar.

Hummingbird feeding happens many times a day to maintain energy.

Hummingbird beak

The long, thin bill.

The hummingbird beak is perfectly shaped for reaching deep into flowers.

Hummingbird hovering

Staying still in the air.

Hummingbird hovering looks effortless, but it requires constant wing motion.

Hummingbird visit

A short appearance.

A hummingbird visit to the garden often lasts only a few seconds.

Hummingbird speed

Fast flight.

Hummingbird speed allows it to escape danger quickly.

Hummingbird colors

Bright feathers.

The hummingbird colors changed depending on the angle of the light.

Hummingbird behavior

Typical actions.

Hummingbird behavior includes defending feeding areas aggressively.

Hummingbird in flight

Seen while flying.

Seeing a hummingbird in flight feels like watching a living jewel.

Words Rhyme with hummingbird

word
heard
third
bird
absurd
occurred
preferred
deferred
referred
transferred
incurred
conferred
deterred
interred
slurred
blurred
stirred
whirred
curd
herd
nerd
gird
blackbird
bluebird
mockingbird
thunderbird
overheard
undeterred
undisturbed
disinterred
POS: Noun  Category: Animals, Birds