kiwi

noun

ki·​wi ˈkē-(ˌ)wē 

1

: any of a small genus (Apteryx) of flightless New Zealand birds with rudimentary wings, stout legs, a long bill, and grayish brown hairlike plumage

2

capitalized : a native or resident of New Zealand

—used as a nickname

3

: kiwifruit

Illustration of kiwi

• kiwi 1

Did you know?

A kiwi is any of three species of chicken-sized, grayish brown flightless birds found in New Zealand. Their Maori name refers to the male's shrill call. Kiwis have vestigial wings hidden within the plumage; nostrils at the tip (rather than the base) of the long flexible bill; soft, hairlike feathers; and stout, muscular legs. Each of the four toes has a large claw. Kiwis live in forests, where they sleep by day and forage for worms, insects and their larvae, and berries at night. They run swiftly and use their claws in defense when cornered.

Examples of kiwi in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The bolder colors like watermelon, raspberry, and kiwi are seamless ways to add some personality to the refined look. —Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 26 May 2024

But don’t discount the addition of more tropical fruits like kiwi or mango, which can complement the sweetness of the pancakes or waffles. —Christianna Silva, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 May 2024

Rushed to the hospital, Cray, now 24, received a diagnosis of several allergies, including peanuts, nuts, sesame, mustard, kiwi, seafood and various fruits. —Jordan Greene, Peoplemag, 21 May 2024

The experience commences with the popular Tuna Thai Jewel with lemongrass-ginger broth, kiwi, jicama and Thai basil. —Georgann Yara, The Arizona Republic, 14 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Maori

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

kiwi

noun

ki·​wi ˈkē-(ˌ)wē 

1

: a flightless New Zealand bird with weak and undeveloped wings, stout legs, a long bill, and grayish brown hairlike feathers

2

: kiwifruit