Aviaries are a unique and fascinating aspect of the animal kingdom. They are essentially enclosures or cages that are designed to house birds, particularly those that are bred for their beauty or singing abilities. These structures can range from small, personal bird cages to large, elaborate facilities that house thousands of birds.
Definitions
The term “aviary” refers to a place where birds are kept, either for breeding, observation, or as pets. Aviaries can vary in size and complexity, from small backyard enclosures to large, multi-level facilities that house hundreds or even thousands of birds.
Origin
The word “aviary” comes from the Latin word “aviarium,” which means “a place for birds.” The concept of aviaries dates back thousands of years, with evidence of bird-keeping found in ancient Egypt and Rome.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an aviary is “a place where birds are kept.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines an aviary as “a large enclosure for keeping birds in.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines an aviary as “a large cage or enclosed area in which birds are kept.”
Associations
Aviaries are often associated with bird-watching, bird-keeping, and bird-breeding. They can also be associated with zoos, wildlife parks, and other animal-related attractions.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for aviaries include birdhouses, birdcages, bird sanctuaries, and bird enclosures.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for aviaries, but some related terms might include “bird-free” or “bird-less” environments.
The same root words
The word “aviary” shares the same root word as “aviation,” which means “the operation of aircraft.” Both words are derived from the Latin word “avis,” which means “bird.”
Example Sentences
- The local zoo has an impressive aviary that houses dozens of different bird species.
- She spent hours each day tending to her backyard aviary, making sure her birds were well-fed and happy.
- The pet store had a variety of different birdcages and aviaries for sale, ranging from small, simple designs to large, ornate structures.
- The bird sanctuary was a peaceful place, with dozens of different birds living in large, open-air aviaries.
- The aviary was filled with the sounds of chirping and singing birds, creating a serene and calming atmosphere.