phoebe
n. countablen. a small, grey-brown bird from North America that catches insects while flying. It is known for making a sharp sound that sounds like its name.
n. any of several small insectivorous passerine birds of the genus Sayornis, native to North America. Characterised by a habit of wagging the tail when perched and a distinctive vocalisation.
A phoebe sat on the fence and wagged its tail.
The eastern phoebe often builds its nest under the eaves of houses or bridges to stay dry.
Ornithologists noted that the phoebe is one of the first migratory species to return north in the spring, often arriving while frost still covers the ground.
Borrowed from Latin Phoebē, from Ancient Greek Φοίβη (Phoíbē), feminine form of Φοῖβος (Phoîbos, “bright”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Commonly used in the names of specific species, such as the 'eastern phoebe' or 'black phoebe'.
Last updated May 6, 2026