redshank: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialist (ornithology, historical)
Quick answer
What does “redshank” mean?
A medium-sized wading bird (Tringa totanus) with long orange-red legs, commonly found in wetlands.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A medium-sized wading bird (Tringa totanus) with long orange-red legs, commonly found in wetlands.
Historically, a nickname for a Scottish Highlander or soldier, referring to their bare legs or red-dyed hose.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The ornithological term is identical. The historical term 'Redshank' for a Highlander is primarily used in British historical contexts.
Connotations
In the UK, the bird is a familiar sight in coastal marshes. The historical term can carry connotations of wildness or fierceness.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general language. Higher frequency in UK birdwatching circles than in the US, as the bird's range is primarily Palearctic.
Grammar
How to Use “redshank” in a Sentence
The [ADJECTIVE] redshank [VERB].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in ornithology and ecology papers.
Everyday
Rare, except among birdwatchers.
Technical
Specific to zoology/taxonomy.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “redshank”
- Using 'redshank' to refer to any bird with red legs.
- Misspelling as 'red shank' (two words).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is one word.
Yes, but this is an archaic historical term for a Scottish Highlander, not used in modern language.
In coastal wetlands, saltmarshes, and estuaries, particularly in Europe and Asia.
They are different species. The spotted redshank (Tringa erythropus) is slimmer, darker in breeding plumage, and has a longer bill.
A medium-sized wading bird (Tringa totanus) with long orange-red legs, commonly found in wetlands.
Redshank is usually specialist (ornithology, historical) in register.
Redshank: in British English it is pronounced /ˈrɛdʃæŋk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈrɛdˌʃæŋk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of its RED legs SHANK-deep in water.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SPOT OF COLOUR IN THE MARSH (based on its appearance).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern meaning of 'redshank'?