English Reference
Adjective

avian

adj.
C1 Advanced US /ˈeɪviən/ UK /ˈeɪvɪən/ avian UK spelling avians

adj.relating to birds. You see this word in science news or when people talk about bird health.

adj.relating to or characteristic of birds. Often used in scientific, medical, or technical contexts to describe species, diseases, or habitats.


SIMPLE

The scientist studies avian behavior in the rainforest.

CONTEXTUAL

Health officials are monitoring the local wetlands to prevent the spread of avian flu among migratory populations.

COMPLEX

The museum's latest exhibit showcases the remarkable avian diversity found across the archipelago, highlighting how different beak shapes evolved to suit specific food sources.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun.

Because of the wide variety of avian species found across the globe, you can go birding just about anywhere in the world, from the most remote wilderness areas to bustling city blocks.

The Conversation· 27 Jul 2026

His biggest contribution was choosing the American bald eagle as the seal’s avian centerpiece.

Smithsonian Magazine· 1 Jul 2026

From Latin avis (“bird”) + -ian.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated