bird feeder: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to Informal
Quick answer
What does “bird feeder” mean?
A device or container filled with food, placed outdoors to attract and feed wild birds.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device or container filled with food, placed outdoors to attract and feed wild birds.
Any structure, container, or area dedicated to providing sustenance for birds, ranging from simple hanging seed dispensers to elaborate, platform-style feeding stations.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both terms are identical and equally common. In historical or rural UK contexts, 'bird table' is sometimes used for a raised platform feeder, but 'bird feeder' remains the primary term.
Connotations
Neutral in both regions. Associated with gardening, wildlife conservation, and suburban/rural domesticity.
Frequency
Very common in both varieties. No significant frequency difference.
Grammar
How to Use “bird feeder” in a Sentence
[Verb] + a bird feeder (hang/fill/clean)[Adjective] + bird feeder (squirrel-proof/hummingbird)bird feeder + [for + type of bird] (for finches/for woodpeckers)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bird feeder” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We bird-feed daily from our kitchen window.
- She enjoys bird-feeding as a hobby.
American English
- They bird-feed year-round to help local species.
- Are you bird-feeding this winter?
adverb
British English
- [This derivation is extremely rare and non-standard]
American English
- [This derivation is extremely rare and non-standard]
adjective
British English
- It was a proper bird-feeding area, with multiple stations.
- The bird-feeding season had begun.
American English
- She follows strict bird-feeding protocols.
- The park has bird-feeding guidelines.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in retail contexts (e.g., garden supply stores).
Academic
Used in ornithology, ecology, and wildlife management studies.
Everyday
Very common in domestic and gardening contexts.
Technical
Used in wildlife conservation and ornithological fieldwork notes.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bird feeder”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bird feeder”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bird feeder”
- Using 'birds feeder' (incorrect plural genitive)
- Confusing 'bird feeder' (object) with 'bird feeding' (activity).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A 'bird feeder' is a general term for any device that holds bird food. A 'bird table' is a specific type of feeder, typically a raised, flat platform with a roof, more common in UK usage.
It is most commonly written as two separate words ('bird feeder'). The hyphenated form 'bird-feeder' is less common but also acceptable, especially when used as a modifier (e.g., 'bird-feeder supplies').
It depends on the birds you wish to attract. Black oil sunflower seeds are a popular, high-energy choice for many common species like cardinals and finches. Specific feeders use nyjer seeds for finches, suet for woodpeckers, or sugar water for hummingbirds.
Yes, if not maintained properly. Dirty feeders can harbour and spread diseases like salmonellosis and trichomoniasis among bird populations. It's important to clean feeders regularly with a dilute bleach solution and rinse thoroughly.
A device or container filled with food, placed outdoors to attract and feed wild birds.
Bird feeder is usually neutral to informal in register.
Bird feeder: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɜːd ˌfiːdə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɝːd ˌfiːdər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms directly featuring 'bird feeder']”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the two F's: a **Feeder** **F**or **F**eathered friends.
Conceptual Metaphor
A RESTAURANT FOR BIRDS (e.g., 'The finches were regulars at the feeder.').
Practice
Quiz
What is a common problem associated with bird feeders?