thunderbird
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of thunderbird
Explanation
The thunderbird is a legendary creature from Native American folklore. It is said to be an animal with strong wings that can generate the loud sounds that you hear during a storm. According to Algonquian mythology, thunderbirds are powerful and majestic creatures that can control weather elements, particularly thunder and lightning. The appearance and characteristics of the thunderbird can vary among different tribes, but the creature is generally depicted as a large bird that creates thunderous sounds as it flies. The thunderbird holds cultural and spiritual significance, often symbolizing strength, protection, and the natural elements.
Vocabulary lists containing thunderbird
A Mythical Menagerie
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Buffalo Dreamer
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Legendary Frybread Drive-In
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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.
The college mascot is the thunderbird and ”feel the thunder” is the school slogan.
From Seattle Times • May 11, 2024
One of Singletary’s mentors, David Svenson, is represented by a thunderbird emerging from the mouth of the whale.
From Seattle Times • Jul. 13, 2022
Headed by the histrionic General Hugh Johnson, the National Recovery Administration issued window placards embossed with a blue thunderbird to signify their compliance with its standards.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2020
In September, Frank Ocean performed on “Saturday Night Live” wearing a Supreme hockey jersey adorned with a Southwestern-style thunderbird.
From New York Times • Nov. 21, 2012
She cleared her throat, and it sounded like a thunderbird.
From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
