wood hen (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/wʊd hɛn/

Meaning and Usage

The term "wood hen" refers to a specific type of bird, particularly the Melean island dove (also known as the wood hen), which is native to New Zealand. It can also refer to certain species of rail that inhabit woodland areas, such as the buff-banded rail. The use of "wood hen" is relatively infrequent in everyday conversation and is more common in ornithological contexts. It tends to appear more in written contexts, such as scientific literature or birdwatching guides.

Example Sentences

1. The wood hen is an elusive bird that is often hard to spot in dense forests.
   Вуд хен — это ускользающая птица, которую часто трудно встретить в густых лесах.

2. During our hike, we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a wood hen roaming the underbrush.
   Во время нашего похода нам повезло увидеть вуд хен, бродящего по подлеску.

3. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the habitats of the wood hen in New Zealand.
   Меры по охране окружающей среды принимаются для защиты мест обитания вуд хен в Новой Зеландии.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "wood hen" is not typically found in idiomatic expressions common in English. However, relevant phrases that speak to the characteristics of birds or nature can be explored in a broader context.

1. Like a bird in the hand
   Having a wood hen spotted is like having a bird in the hand, representing a rare chance for birdwatchers.
   Увидеть вуд хен, это как иметь птицу в руках, что символизирует редкий шанс для орнитологов.

2. Kill two birds with one stone
   Many tourists come to New Zealand hoping to kill two birds with one stone, enjoying the scenery while spotting a wood hen.
   Многие туристы приезжают в Новую Зеландию с надеждой убить двух зайцев, наслаждаясь пейзажами и одновременно увидев вуд хен.

3. A feather in one's cap
   Spotting a wood hen is certainly a feather in one's cap for any avid birdwatcher.
   Увидеть вуд хен — определенно, это преимущество для любого увлеченного орнитолога.

Etymology

The term "wood hen" derives from Middle English, where "wood" refers to a forest or wooded area, and "hen," an Old English word ("han") for female bird, especially domesticated fowl or game birds.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Wood pigeon (for related species) - Rail (generic term for related birds)

Antonyms: - None specifically apply, as "wood hen" refers to a specific classification rather than having direct oppositional terms.

This comprehensive overview captures essential aspects of the term "wood hen" while also addressing relevant contextual details.