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

However, kiwi may have a slight edge in easing constipation and supporting smoother digestion. — Sarah Garone, HEALTH, 24 Sep. 2026

Joe & The Juice focuses on its fruit juice drinks such as its Green Mile juice, with kiwi, spinach, lemon, apple, and avocado. — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 22 Sep. 2026

Some foods, such as kiwi and chia seeds, add significant amounts of fiber to the diet with relatively small portion sizes. — Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 7 Sep. 2026

Blend kiwi with banana, spinach, and oat milk for a sweet green smoothie. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 31 Aug. 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