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

Kiwi : 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 kiwi has both soluble and insoluble fiber, which contribute to healthy digestion. —Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 21 Jan. 2026

Keep red bell peppers, strawberries, or kiwi on hand for a quick vitamin C boost. —Lauren Manaker, SELF, 19 Jan. 2026

Your Heart Health May Improve A diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports heart health, and kiwi can be a contributing benefactor. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Health, 15 Jan. 2026

Fertilizer Because fruit growth requires significant energy, feed your kiwi regularly from early spring through early fall. —Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 15 Jan. 2026

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