Definition of starling
: any of a family (Sturnidae, especially genus Sturnus) of usually dark gregarious oscine birds; especially : a dark brown or in summer glossy greenish-black European bird (S. vulgaris) naturalized nearly worldwide and often considered a pest
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Origin and Etymology of starling
Middle English, from Old English stærlinc, from stær starling + -ling, -linc -ling; akin to Old High German stara starling, Latin sturnus
First Known Use: before 12th century
STARLING Defined for English Language Learners
starling
playDefinition of starling for English Language Learners
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: a dark brown or black bird that is common in Europe and the U.S.
STARLING Defined for Kids
starling
playDefinition of starling for Students
: a dark brown or greenish black European bird that is now common in the United States
Learn More about starling
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See words that rhyme with starling Spanish Central: Translation of starling Nglish: Translation of starling for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about starling
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