nuthatch

noun

nut·​hatch ˈnət-ˌhach 

: any of various small tree-climbing chiefly insectivorous birds (family Sittidae and especially genus Sitta) that have a compact body, a narrow bill, a short tail, and sometimes a black cap

Illustration of nuthatch

Examples of nuthatch in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This seed is a favorite of cardinals, finches, nuthatches, and many more. — Abby Fribush, Southern Living, 18 June 2026

Within a few years, I could be heard to note that the nuthatches were running late this season, or that the chickadees renewed their lease on the south nesting box. — Murr Brewster, Christian Science Monitor, 16 Aug. 2025

Residents like chickadees, nuthatches and woodpeckers depend on these resources to survive until spring. — Special To The Denver Post, Denver Post, 12 May 2026

Cavity nesting birds, such as bluebirds, chickadees, flycatchers, nuthatches, trogons, and wrens as well as some duck species, use birdhouses or nest boxes. — Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English notehache, from note nut + -hache; akin to Old English tohaccian to hack — more at hack

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nuthatch

• attach
• bycatch
• despatch
• detach
• dispatch
• mismatch
• potlatch
• bache
• batch
• brach
• catch
• hatch

Kids Definition

nuthatch

noun

nut·​hatch ˈnət-ˌhach 

: any of various small birds that climb trees and eat insects and are noted for their habit of going down tree trunks headfirst