phalarope

noun

phal·​a·​rope ˈfa-lə-ˌrōp 

plural phalaropes also phalarope

: any of a genus (Phalaropus) of small shorebirds related to sandpipers but distinguished by their lobed toes and preference for swimming

Examples of phalarope in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Flamingos’ feeding prowess can even benefit other birds: A 2018 study found that Wilson’s phalaropes can double their food intake by following behind a stomping flamingo. —Sara Hashemi, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 May 2025

Wilson's phalaropes, American oystercatchers and wood storks. —Jared Ranahan, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024

Mono Lake provides habitat for imperiled shorebirds such as Wilson’s phalaropes, which stop at saline lakes during their long migrations, feeding on brine flies and other invertebrates. —Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2024

Then there is Wilson’s phalarope, an unusual shorebird that often lives inland, despite a predilection for salt water. —Emily Anthes, New York Times, 29 Aug. 2023

Other Plum Island sightings were highlighted by an unseasonal merlin and a red-necked phalarope. —BostonGlobe.com, 5 Aug. 2023

Word History

Etymology

French, from New Latin phalaropod-, phalaropus, from Greek phalaris coot + pod-, pous foot; akin to Greek phalios having a white spot — more at bald, foot

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for phalarope

• antelope
• bronchoscope
• cantaloupe
• cystoscope
• endoscope
• envelope
• epitope
• gyroscope
• horoscope
• isotope
• microscope
• misanthrope

Kids Definition

phalarope

noun

phal·​a·​rope ˈfal-ə-ˌrōp 

: any of various small shorebirds that resemble sandpipers but have thicker toes and are good swimmers