rufous

adjective

ru·​fous ˈrü-fəs 

: reddish

Examples of rufous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But between mid-October and early December, Bridge said rarer hummingbirds can sometimes be spotted too, such rufous, Anna’s or Mexican violetear. — Blaise Mesa, jsonline.com, 4 Sep. 2026

The robin-sized gray catbird sports a lovely shade of gray overall, with a black cap, dark eye, black in the wings and contrasting bright rufous under its tail. — Sheryl De Vore, Chicago Tribune, 27 May 2026

The rufous-breasted blue flycatcher was photographed in Luzon Island, Philippines, after last being seen in 2008. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 8 Apr. 2026

The rufous-breasted blue flycatcher was photographed on Luzon Island, Philippines, after last being seen in 2008. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 8 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin rufus red — more at red

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined above