hummingbird

noun

hum·​ming·​bird ˈhə-miŋ-ˌbərd 

: any of a family (Trochilidae) of tiny brightly colored nonpasserine American birds related to the swifts that have a very slender bill and an extensible tongue for sipping nectar and that usually hover rather than perch when feeding

Illustration of hummingbird

Examples of hummingbird in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some bees do feed on bee balm, but the plant is especially popular with hummingbirds and butterflies. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2026

As the warmth of spring begins to move through Tennessee, hummingbirds will soon be filling gardens around the state as well. —Jordan Green, Memphis Commercial Appeal, 6 Mar. 2026

These fragrant perennials are at home in a cottage garden, garden border, along walkways, and in a butterfly garden, where their sweet fragrance attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. —Lynn McAlpine, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 2026

Bird lovers across the country will start seeing hummingbirds anytime now. —Sydney Wingfield, Martha Stewart, 4 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1637, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hummingbird

• ruby-throated hummingbird

Rhymes for hummingbird

• afterword
• firebird
• ladybird
• mockingbird
• overheard
• thunderbird
• undergird
• undeterred
• absurd
• averred
• bluebird
• byword

Kids Definition

hummingbird

noun

hum·​ming·​bird ˈhəm-iŋ-ˌbərd 

: any of numerous tiny brightly colored American birds related to the swifts and having narrow swiftly beating wings, a slender bill, and a long tongue for sipping nectar