flycatcher

[ flahy-kach-er ]

noun

1. any of numerous Old World birds of the family Muscicapidae, that feed on insects captured in the air.
2. Also called tyrant flycatcher. any of numerous similar American birds of the family Tyrannidae.

flycatcher

/ ˈflaɪˌkætʃə /

noun

1. See spotted flycatcher
   any small insectivorous songbird of the Old World subfamily Muscicapinae , having small slender bills fringed with bristles: family Muscicapidae See also spotted flycatcher
2. any American passerine bird of the family Tyrannidae

Word History and Origins

Origin of flycatcher¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; fly ¹ + catcher

Example Sentences

Many birds, such as the pied flycatcher, rely on fat insect larvae to feed their young.

From Science News For Students

Myiodynastes luteiventris luteiventris Sclater: Sulfur-bellied Flycatcher.

From Project Gutenberg

Myiozetetes similis texensis (Giraud): Vermilion-crowned Flycatcher.

From Project Gutenberg

Myiarchus tuberculifer platyrhynchus Ridgway: Olivaceous Flycatcher.

From Project Gutenberg

May and June are the months in which to look for the nests of that superb bird—the paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi).

From Project Gutenberg

In the breeding season the cock sings a sweet little lay—an abridged version of that of the fantail flycatcher.

From Project Gutenberg