brazilian ruby: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Formal (Ornithology, Gemology)
Quick answer
What does “brazilian ruby” mean?
A rare, hummingbird species (Clytolaema rubricauda) native to southeastern Brazil, noted for its striking red throat and brilliant plumage in males.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A rare, hummingbird species (Clytolaema rubricauda) native to southeastern Brazil, noted for its striking red throat and brilliant plumage in males.
In gemology and trade, 'Brazilian ruby' can refer to a red tourmaline (rubellite) or garnet found in Brazil, but this usage is less common than the ornithological one. The term is also sometimes used metaphorically for something rare, brilliant, or of exceptional beauty originating from Brazil.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences. Both varieties use the term primarily in ornithological contexts.
Connotations
Neutral technical/scientific term. Evokes images of tropical vibrancy and rarity.
Frequency
Very low frequency in everyday language. Slightly higher in scientific, birdwatching, or specialised gem-trading circles.
Grammar
How to Use “brazilian ruby” in a Sentence
The [adj] Brazilian Ruby [verb] in the forest.We observed a Brazilian Ruby [verb-ing].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “brazilian ruby” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Brazilian Ruby plumage was spectacular.
- It was a Brazilian Ruby specimen.
American English
- The Brazilian Ruby plumage was spectacular.
- It was a Brazilian Ruby specimen.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; potentially in the context of gemstone trade or eco-tourism.
Academic
Used in ornithology, zoology, and environmental biology papers.
Everyday
Extremely rare; used by birdwatchers or enthusiasts.
Technical
Standard term in field guides and species catalogues for birds and gems.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “brazilian ruby”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “brazilian ruby”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “brazilian ruby”
- Using lowercase ('brazilian ruby') when it's a proper name for the species.
- Confusing it with other red hummingbirds like the 'Ruby-throated Hummingbird' (a different North American species).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, no. The primary meaning refers to a bird. In gemology, 'Brazilian ruby' is a trade name for other red stones like tourmaline or garnet, not corundum (true ruby).
In the wild, only in specific regions of southeastern Brazil, particularly in the Atlantic Forest. They are also kept in some specialised aviaries and zoos worldwide.
Yes, when referring to the bird species as a proper noun (like a name), it is capitalised: 'Brazilian Ruby'. In informal or gem trade contexts, it may be lowercase.
They are different species from different continents. The Brazilian Ruby (Clytolaema rubricauda) is from Brazil. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is from North America.
A rare, hummingbird species (Clytolaema rubricauda) native to southeastern Brazil, noted for its striking red throat and brilliant plumage in males.
Brazilian ruby is usually technical/formal (ornithology, gemology) in register.
Brazilian ruby: in British English it is pronounced /brəˈzɪl.i.ən ˈruː.bi/, and in American English it is pronounced /brəˈzɪl.jən ˈruː.bi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None specific to this term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a brilliant red jewel (ruby) flying like a hummingbird through the Brazilian rainforest.
Conceptual Metaphor
A LIVING JEWEL (the bird is conceptualised as a precious, sparkling gem).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'Brazilian Ruby' most precisely and correctly used?