birdseed

American  

[burd-seed] / ˈbɜrdˌsid /

noun

1. any seed or mixture of seeds used for feeding birds.

2. the seed of a grass, Phalaris canariensis, used as food for birds.

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birdseed British  

/ ˈbɜːdˌsiːd /

noun

1. Also called: canary seed.  a mixture of various kinds of seeds for feeding cagebirds

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Etymology

Origin of birdseed

First recorded in 1830–40; bird + seed

Example Sentences

The true gut punch came when I ran into the store for birdseed and walked straight into a wall of school supplies where beach towels and sunscreen had been.

From Salon • Sep. 21, 2025

In the suburbs, turkeys can take advantage of edge habitat, like woods and open spaces, and dine on a never-ending buffet of food provided by people—particularly birdseed.

From National Geographic • Nov. 20, 2023

People often put birdseed near windows, too, to watch from the comfort of home.

From Slate • Dec. 6, 2022

Recently, while picking up bags of birdseed at a local agriculture supply store, I saw in the parking lot quite a few preassembled sheds ready to be delivered to homes.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 26, 2022

After twenty minutes, he puts the birdseed away and we walk back to the house.

From "The Adoration of Jenna Fox" by Mary E. Pearson