ENGLISH
REFERENCE

orioles

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈɔɹiˌoʊɫz// UK //ˈɔːɹɪˌəʊlz// ori·oles

n. brightly colored songbirds often found in gardens and forests. The males usually have striking orange or yellow feathers with black wings.

n. any of various colorful passerine birds belonging to the families Oriolidae (Old World) or Icteridae (New World).


SIMPLE

We saw several bright orange orioles nesting in the tall elm trees.

CONTEXTUAL

The garden became a popular spot for birdwatchers once the orioles began their seasonal migration through the valley.

COMPLEX

While the Old World and New World orioles share a name and similar vibrant plumage, they belong to entirely different biological families, representing a classic case of convergent evolution.

Synonyms
Usage

The plural form of 'oriole'; when capitalized, it refers to the professional baseball team based in Baltimore.

© 2026 English Reference