# thrush

/ˈθɹəʃ/ (US) · /θɹˈʌʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thrush
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a common name for several types of small birds with beautiful songs, like the blackbird or the song thrush. It can also describe a type of infection in the mouth or throat.

For teachers: a common name for several species of small passerine birds, particularly those of the family Turdidae, known for their melodic songs. In a medical context, it refers to a fungal infection of the mucous membranes, most commonly caused by Candida.

## Examples

- The song thrush sings beautifully in the garden every morning.
- The doctor diagnosed a case of oral thrush and prescribed an antifungal cream to apply twice daily.
- While the thrush is a beloved symbol of the English countryside, its population has declined significantly due to the loss of hedgerows and the use of chemical pesticides.

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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.