cariama: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very RareTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “cariama” mean?
A large, long-legged, crested bird of prey native to South American grasslands, also known as the seriema.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large, long-legged, crested bird of prey native to South American grasslands, also known as the seriema.
Refers specifically to either of the two species within the family Cariamidae (the red-legged seriema and the black-legged seriema), terrestrial birds known for their distinctive calls and role in controlling snake populations.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage; the term is equally technical and rare in both varieties.
Connotations
Scientific, precise, associated with academic zoology or birdwatching.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language; appears almost exclusively in specialized texts.
Grammar
How to Use “cariama” in a Sentence
The [adjective] cariama is native to...Cariama cristata [verb]...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cariama” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The cariama skeleton was remarkably complete.
- We studied cariama evolution.
American English
- The cariama exhibit is new at the zoo.
- He's an expert on cariama behavior.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in biological/zoological papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in ornithology for species within the family Cariamidae.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cariama”
- Mispronouncing it as /kəˈriːmə/ or /ˈkɑːriəmə/.
- Using it as a common noun outside a zoological context.
- Confusing it with 'caramba' (Spanish exclamation).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'cariama' is the scientific genus name, while 'seriema' is the more common English name for the same birds.
No, it is exclusively a noun referring to the bird.
No, both species of cariama (seriema) are currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Almost exclusively in specialized ornithological texts, wildlife documentaries, or advanced academic writing in zoology.
A large, long-legged, crested bird of prey native to South American grasslands, also known as the seriema.
Cariama is usually technical/scientific in register.
Cariama: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkærɪˈɑːmə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkɛriˈɑmə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Carry Anna' a large, leggy bird across the South American pampas.
Conceptual Metaphor
Not applicable for this highly specific zoological term.
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'cariama'?