# pied

/ˈpaɪd/ (US) · /pˈaɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pied
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

having two or more different colors, usually in patches or spots.

For teachers: having patches of two or more colors, typically used to describe birds or animals. Often used in literary contexts or to describe specific species.

## Examples

- The pied bird has black and white feathers.
- The pied wagtail is easily recognized by its distinctive black, white, and grey plumage.
- The poet celebrated the dappled beauty of the landscape, noting the pied markings of the cattle grazing in the valley.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.