spoonbill

noun

spoon·​bill ˈspün-ˌbil 

1

: any of several wading birds (family Threskiornithidae) related to the ibises that have an expanded bill that is flattened and rounded at the tip

2

: any of several broad-billed ducks (such as the shoveler)

Examples of spoonbill in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Birders will delight in the biodiversity of this year-round rookery that brings together egrets, herons, ibises, and spoonbills. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 24 May 2025

Such thoughtful designs create an intimate atmosphere for spotting water monitor lizards and diverse birdlife like black-faced spoonbills. —Cory Lee, AFAR Media, 30 Apr. 2025

In late July and August, many migratory birds, including egrets, herons, and spoonbills, also stop on the beaches. —David Escribano, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2024

Boat rides to Little St. Simon Island give crews the chance to spot spoonbills and gannets. —Lindsay Cohn, Parents, 13 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1678, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spoonbill

• roseate spoonbill
• spoonbill cat

Kids Definition

spoonbill

noun

spoon·​bill ˈspün-ˌbil 

: any of several wading birds related to the ibises that have a bill with a broad, flat, and rounded tip