gray parrot: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2neutral
Quick answer
What does “gray parrot” mean?
A medium-sized, intelligent parrot species (*Psittacus erithacus*) native to Central and West Africa, known for its predominantly grey plumage and bright red tail.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A medium-sized, intelligent parrot species (*Psittacus erithacus*) native to Central and West Africa, known for its predominantly grey plumage and bright red tail.
Often used as a generic term for the species, which includes two main subspecies: the Congo African Grey and the Timneh African Grey. In broader contexts, can refer to any parrot with predominantly grey feathers, but the term is most strongly associated with the African Grey, famous for its cognitive and vocal mimicry abilities.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling: 'grey parrot' (UK) vs. 'gray parrot' (US). The UK spelling is also common in scientific and avicultural contexts globally. The species is frequently called 'African Grey/Gray parrot' in both regions.
Connotations
Identical in both variants. Connotes an intelligent, talking pet bird.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in US English due to the common pet name 'African Gray'. In UK English, 'African Grey' is the standard term.
Grammar
How to Use “gray parrot” in a Sentence
[subject] owns/keeps/has a gray parrot.The gray parrot [verb: mimics/speaks/squawks].[adjective] gray parrotVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gray parrot” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A for the noun phrase 'grey parrot'. The related verb is 'to parrot'.
American English
- N/A for the noun phrase 'gray parrot'. The related verb is 'to parrot'.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- She has a grey-parrot intelligence about her. (metaphorical)
American English
- He's known for his gray-parrot mimicry skills. (attributive noun use)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in pet trade, veterinary, or animal supply industries.
Academic
Used in zoology, ethology (animal behavior), and veterinary science papers.
Everyday
Common in pet ownership discussions, animal documentaries, and general knowledge.
Technical
Used in ornithology and aviculture with precise subspecies classification (e.g., Congo vs. Timneh).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gray parrot”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gray parrot”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gray parrot”
- Using 'gray parrot' for any grey-colored parrot (e.g., a cockatiel).
- Incorrectly capitalizing as 'Gray Parrot' unless starting a sentence or part of a formal title.
- Misspelling 'grey/gray' according to the intended dialect.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are correct. 'Grey' is the British English spelling, and 'gray' is the American English spelling. The species is most accurately called the 'African Grey/Gray parrot'.
Yes, African Grey parrots are among the best avian mimics. They don't 'talk' with understanding like humans, but they can learn to associate words and phrases with contexts and objects, producing highly accurate vocal imitations.
They are subspecies. The Congo African Grey is larger, with light grey feathers, a solid black beak, and a bright red tail. The Timneh is smaller, darker charcoal grey, with a maroon tail and a horn-colored upper mandible.
They are demanding pets. They are highly intelligent, social, and can live over 50 years, requiring immense mental stimulation, social interaction, and specialized care. They are not recommended for novice bird owners.
A medium-sized, intelligent parrot species (*Psittacus erithacus*) native to Central and West Africa, known for its predominantly grey plumage and bright red tail.
Gray parrot is usually neutral in register.
Gray parrot: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡreɪ ˈpærət/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡreɪ ˈpɛrət/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(as) smart as a gray parrot”
- “to parrot (verb, derived from parrot behavior, not the species specifically)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Picture a GREY bird that can PARROT (repeat) everything you say.
Conceptual Metaphor
INTELLIGENCE IS A GRAY PARROT (due to its renowned cognitive abilities).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate description of a 'gray parrot'?