Definition of parrot

Short definition: The word parrot means a type of bird that has bright feathers and is famous for repeating words and sounds it hears. People also use it in a figurative way to describe someone who repeats what others say without really understanding it.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word parrot? The word parrot often makes people think of bright feathers, loud voices, and funny moments when a bird suddenly copies human speech. But beyond being a colorful pet, a parrot also appears in daily language to describe people who repeat things without really thinking. In everyday life, parrot can describe both a real animal and a human behavior that feels very familiar. Below, each meaning is explained in a relaxed and natural way, with explanations that feel human instead of stiff like a textbook.

Noun forms: parrot, parrots
Verb forms: parrot, parrots, parroting, parroted
Related: parakeet n., mimic v.
Syllable: par-rot

1. A colorful bird that can copy sounds and human speech.

   In its most common meaning, a parrot is a type of bird known for its bright feathers and playful personality. Many parrots can repeat words, sounds, and even short sentences, which makes them popular as pets. People often feel surprised and amused when a parrot suddenly talks back.

   The parrot greeted everyone at the door, repeating the same cheerful phrase every morning.
   She loves her parrot because it makes the house feel lively and fun.
   At the zoo, the children gathered around the parrot, laughing each time it copied their voices.

   Synonyms: talking bird, colorful bird, pet bird, tropical bird, mimic bird, bright-feathered bird, companion bird, vocal bird, exotic bird, lively bird, playful bird, friendly bird
   Antonyms: silent bird, quiet animal, non-vocal bird, mute creature, soundless pet, quiet creature, silent animal, calm bird, noiseless pet, quiet companion, silent companion, quiet pet

2. To repeat someone else’s words without thinking.

   As a verb, parrot describes the act of repeating what someone else says without adding your own ideas. It often sounds a little negative, suggesting that the person is copying words but not really understanding them.

   He just parroted what he heard online, without checking if it was true.
   She didn’t want to parrot her parents’ opinions, so she took time to form her own views.
   The student kept parroting the teacher’s words, but still didn’t fully understand the lesson.

   Synonyms: repeat, mimic, echo, copy, imitate, say again, mirror words, reproduce speech, repeat blindly, echo back, follow words, duplicate talk
   Antonyms: think independently, express original ideas, create, analyze, form opinions, speak freely, innovate, reason, interpret, question, understand deeply, speak for yourself

3. A person who repeats ideas without understanding them.

   As a noun, parrot can describe a person who keeps repeating what others say. It often carries a slightly critical tone, suggesting a lack of original thinking.

   He felt frustrated being called a parrot, because he wanted people to respect his own ideas.
   She didn’t want to sound like a parrot, so she prepared her own thoughts before the meeting.
   Nobody likes being seen as a parrot who only repeats what others believe.

   Synonyms: copycat, imitator, follower, echo speaker, mimic, repeater, shadow thinker, blind follower, yes-person, echoer, word copier, idea repeater
   Antonyms: independent thinker, leader, innovator, original voice, creative mind, free thinker, critical thinker, idea creator, trendsetter, original speaker, thought leader, pioneer

4. A symbol of imitation and repetition.

   Sometimes parrot is used in a more general way to talk about copying behavior. It represents the idea of repeating actions or words instead of making your own choices.

   The trend spread quickly as people began to parrot the same style without thinking twice.
   He warned his team not to parrot old methods, but to look for better solutions.
   She didn’t want to parrot everyone else, so she chose a different path.

   Synonyms: copy behavior, imitate actions, follow blindly, repeat patterns, mimic style, echo actions, duplicate habits, mirror others, follow trends, copy trends, repeat ways, act the same
   Antonyms: innovate, lead change, act differently, think creatively, choose your own way, break patterns, stand out, be unique, go your own way, set trends, act independently, be original

5. A word connected with fun, color, and lively personality.

   Beyond definitions, parrot often brings to mind cheerful energy and bright colors. It represents playfulness, noise, and a touch of humor in daily life.

   His bright shirt made him look like a parrot, full of color and personality.
   The party felt alive, thanks to music and a parrot-like level of energy.
   She loves cartoons with parrot characters, because they always bring laughter.

   Synonyms: lively symbol, colorful character, cheerful image, playful sign, fun figure, bright personality, joyful symbol, energetic image, happy icon, lively figure, fun character, colorful icon
   Antonyms: dull image, boring symbol, colorless figure, quiet character, serious tone, gloomy image, plain personality, lifeless symbol, calm presence, serious figure, muted image, dull presence