parrot

American  

[par-uht] / ˈpær ət /

noun

1. any of numerous hook-billed, often brilliantly colored birds of the order Psittaciformes, as the cockatoo, lory, macaw, or parakeet, having the ability to mimic speech and often kept as pets.

2. a person who, without thought or understanding, merely repeats the words or imitates the actions of another.

---

verb (used with object)

1. to repeat or imitate without thought or understanding.

2. to teach to repeat or imitate in such a fashion.

parrot British  

/ ˈpærət /

noun

1. any bird of the tropical and subtropical order Psittaciformes, having a short hooked bill, compact body, bright plumage, and an ability to mimic sounds

2. a person who repeats or imitates the words or actions of another unintelligently

3. facetious  extremely disappointed

---

verb

1. (tr) to repeat or imitate mechanically without understanding

Other Word Forms

• parrotlike adjective
• parrotry noun
• parroty adjective

Etymology

Origin of parrot

1515–25; apparently < Middle French P ( i ) errot, diminutive of Pierre ( parakeet ), though a comparable sense of the French word is not known until the 18th century

Example Sentences

She explained that many parrot species develop strong, lasting relationships with one or two partners.

From Science Daily

Everyone else parrots the official ruling, especially those who have something to gain.

From Salon

The documentary “Parrot Kindergarten” explores what happens when a parrot named Ellie chooses to grieve.

From Salon

That’s at least more interesting than Nick continuing to parrot that he’s taking accountability.

From Los Angeles Times

According to the study, Snowball had 14 distinct dance moves, including a “headbang with lifted foot” and a parrot version of “voguing.”

From Salon

Related Words

• recite