Synonyms of migratory

migratory

adjective

ˈmī-grə-ˌtȯr-ē 

as in migrant

having a way of life that involves moving from one region to another typically on a seasonal basis

most of the apple crop is picked by migratory workers

migratory birds heading south for the winter

Synonyms & Similar Words

• migrant
• nomadic
• traveling
• peregrine
• mobile
• itinerant
• peripatetic
• vagrant
• roaming
• roving
• tramp
• vagabond
• ranging
• wayfaring
• ambulatory
• wandering
• errant
• ambulant
• walking
• fugitive
• meandering
• sauntering
• footloose
• drifting
• strolling
• rambling
• gadabout
• gallivanting
• traipsing
• fiddle-footed

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• resident
• stationary
• nonmigratory
• immobile
• nonmigrant
• fixed
• sedentary
• established
• fast
• settled
• rooted
• set

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of migratory

There are both migratory and non-migratory populations, and the migratory monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus plexippus) was listed as endangered by the IUCN Red List in 2022. — Margherita Bassi, Popular Science, 13 Aug. 2026

Artificial nighttime illumination can alter the behavior of migratory birds, insects and other nocturnal species that rely on moonlight and starlight to navigate, feed and reproduce, the coalition says. — Jean Lee, NBC news, 6 Aug. 2026

From Sri Lanka’s vibrant endemic species to the migratory birds of Malaysia and Kenya, here’s where to go for a brilliant birdwatching trip to remember. — Lydia Swinscoe, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026

Depending on the destination and season, fly-out excursions might bring travelers within sight of brown bears, moose, wolves, and an impressive array of migratory birds. — Bailey Berg, Travel + Leisure, 1 Aug. 2026