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

Which is better, glass or plastic hummingbird feeders? —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2026

Flowering from early summer spring through fall, Lime Sizzler™ attracts hummingbirds to the garden all season long. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 29 May 2026

Many gardeners today are planting pollinator gardens to attract bees, butterflies, moths, hummingbirds and other wildlife. —Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 23 May 2026

During our Zoom interview, a hummingbird appeared at the feeder just outside Safran’s window. —Barbara Bry, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 May 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