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

While there's not enough research to know exactly how common avian cholera is, the disease has been on the radar of scientists for decades. — Gabrielle Emanuel, NPR, 29 Oct. 2026

But Nieder doesn’t think this means an avian brain is just wired to produce answers on a timer. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 23 Oct. 2026

The brackish lagoons are a fuel stop for birds crossing between Europe and Africa, making for a constantly rotating avian cast. — Alexandra Marvar, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2026

The necropsy found that Jackie had multiple conditions, including a type of infectious avian flu. — ABC News, 15 Oct. 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