houdan: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very RareTechnical / Specialized
Quick answer
What does “houdan” mean?
A breed of domestic chicken characterized by a large crest of feathers, v-shaped comb, and being five-toed.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A breed of domestic chicken characterized by a large crest of feathers, v-shaped comb, and being five-toed.
A crested and bearded variety of poultry, originally from France, valued historically for both meat and egg production, and now primarily as an ornamental or show bird.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage between UK and US English, as it is a standardized breed name.
Connotations
Specialist/enthusiast knowledge in both regions.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties of English, confined to poultry fancy contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “houdan” in a Sentence
[breed] a HoudanThe [noun] is a Houdan.The Houdan [verb]...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “houdan” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Houdan pullet won first prize at the county show.
American English
- She specializes in Houdan genetics.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical agricultural texts or specialist zoology/poultry science papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in poultry breeding standards, show catalogues, and breed association literature.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “houdan”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “houdan”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “houdan”
- Misspelling as 'Houdon', 'Houdin'.
- Using as a common noun (e.g., 'a houdan' instead of 'a Houdan').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very rare, specialized term used only in poultry breeding and historical contexts.
No, it is exclusively a noun (specifically a proper noun for a breed).
It is named after the town of Houdan, located west of Paris, France, from where the breed was originally exported.
They are considered a heritage breed; their specific crest care makes them more suitable for experienced poultry keepers.
A breed of domestic chicken characterized by a large crest of feathers, v-shaped comb, and being five-toed.
Houdan is usually technical / specialized in register.
Houdan: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhuːdæn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhuːdæn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a chicken wearing a HUGE, fancy hat (a 'hood') – it's a HOUdan.
Conceptual Metaphor
BREED IS A NATIONAL PRODUCT (French origin, like Champagne).
Practice
Quiz
What is a defining characteristic of a Houdan?