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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.


birdseed British  
/ ˈbɜːdˌsiːd /

noun

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of birdseed

First recorded in 1830–40; bird + seed


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

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

If you spot one during the day, check closely to see if it is carrying a sack of birdseed or any Acme packaging before contacting animal control.

From Slate ● Sep. 5, 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 competitions or long-distance events, most jogglers prefer to use palm-size beanbags stuffed with birdseed because they are light enough for the challenge but heavy enough to withstand winds.

From BBC ● Mar. 13, 2024

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

From "Al Capone Does My Shirts" by Gennifer Choldenko

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