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

Walk down the birdseed aisle in any hardware store and you’ll find an entire product category promising “squirrel-proof” solutions.

From Slate • Jan. 25, 2026

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

Fish & Wildlife Service has estimated are birders, with many investing seriously in their passion by purchasing birdseed and bird watching accessories.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 30, 2024

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

Her hair is like mine—brown and blonde all mixed up like birdseed.

From "Al Capone Does My Shirts" by Gennifer Choldenko