avian

adjective

avi·​an ˈā-vē-ən 

: of, relating to, or derived from birds

avian behavior

avian species

see also avian dinosaur

Examples of avian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Bewleys keep a set of binoculars and a bird book close at hand to identify different avian species that visit and migrate across the property during the year — white pelicans, sandhill cranes, wood ducks and more. — David Caraccio updated July 4, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026

This avian bystander may have recognized a fellow bird of prey in Coriolanus, whose role in the Roman ecosystem is necessary yet not fit for all purposes in a young democracy beset with growing pains. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026

Prices hit record highs last year amid an avian flu outbreak that decimated the country's poultry flocks. — Mary Cunningham, CBS News, 30 June 2026

For example, when the avian flu epidemic hit a few years ago, Koetz said Purdue University Extension educators would issue updates on the epidemic with guidance, including keeping ducks and chickens separated. — Alexandra Kukulka, Chicago Tribune, 25 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin avis

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing avian

• avian dinosaur
• avian flu
• avian influenza
• non-avian
• non-avian dinosaur

Rhymes for avian

• flavian
• moravian
• subclavian
• scandinavian

Kids Definition

avian

adjective

avi·​an ˈā-vē-ən 

: of, relating to, or derived from birds

Medical Definition

avian

adjective

avi·​an ˈā-vē-ən 

: of, relating to, or derived from birds