bird spider: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Informal
Quick answer
What does “bird spider” mean?
A large, hairy, ground-dwelling spider that preys on insects, small vertebrates, and sometimes birds.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large, hairy, ground-dwelling spider that preys on insects, small vertebrates, and sometimes birds.
A term for several genera of large spiders (e.g., Theraphosidae, Avicularia) known for their size and, in some regions, as 'tarantulas'. The name is sometimes a misnomer, as they rarely eat birds, though historical illustrations showed them doing so.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, the term is less common and used in more technical or zoological contexts. In the US, it is regionally known, especially in the South, but 'tarantula' is the dominant general term.
Connotations
Both variants carry connotations of fear, exoticism, and size. The UK usage may sound more like a formal zoological name.
Frequency
Rare in everyday speech in both varieties. More frequent in nature documentaries, exotic pet communities, and entomological texts.
Grammar
How to Use “bird spider” in a Sentence
The [adjective] bird spider [verb of motion/action].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bird spider” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [No standard verb form]
American English
- [No standard verb form]
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverb form]
American English
- [No standard adverb form]
adjective
British English
- The bird-spider exhibit was particularly popular.
- He had a bird-spider phobia.
American English
- The bird-spider habitat needs high humidity.
- It was a bird-spider kind of fear.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in zoology, entomology, and ecology papers to describe specific arachnid taxa.
Everyday
Used when discussing large, frightening spiders, often in stories or when describing an encounter.
Technical
A precise common name for spiders in the Theraphosidae family, particularly the genus Theraphosa.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bird spider”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bird spider”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bird spider”
- Using 'bird spider' to refer to any large spider, such as a huntsman. Confusing it with 'bird-eating spider', which is a more specific subgroup.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Most bird spiders are tarantulas (family Theraphosidae), but not all tarantulas are called bird spiders. 'Bird spider' often refers to specific, very large species.
While capable of preying on nestlings or small birds, this is rare. Their diet primarily consists of large insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.
Their bite can be painful, similar to a wasp sting, and may cause allergic reactions, but they are not considered lethal to healthy adults. Their primary defense is urticating hairs, which can irritate skin and eyes.
They are found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including parts of South America, Africa, Asia, and the southern United States.
A large, hairy, ground-dwelling spider that preys on insects, small vertebrates, and sometimes birds.
Bird spider is usually technical/informal in register.
Bird spider: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɜːd ˌspaɪ.dər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɝːd ˌspaɪ.dɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms. Field left intentionally blank.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a BIRD being scared of a SPIDER for a change. The image of a huge spider large enough to tackle a bird helps remember the name's implication of great size.
Conceptual Metaphor
FEAR IS A LARGE PREDATOR; THE EXOTIC IS DANGEROUS AND HAIRY.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate statement about a 'bird spider'?