redwing: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 (Low frequency, domain-specific)Specialist (ornithology), literary/poetic, toponymic.
Quick answer
What does “redwing” mean?
A type of thrush (Turdus iliacus) with reddish-orange underwing feathers and flanks.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of thrush (Turdus iliacus) with reddish-orange underwing feathers and flanks.
Occasionally used as a historical or poetic term for a person or thing from, or associated with, Red Wing (a city in Minnesota, USA). Also a common name for various birds with red markings on their wings.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In both dialects, the primary meaning is ornithological. The toponymic reference is almost exclusively American.
Connotations
In the UK/EU, it strongly connotes a specific migratory bird. In the US Midwest, it may also connote the city, its pottery, or local history.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general language. Higher frequency in birdwatching communities in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “redwing” in a Sentence
The [ADJECTIVE] redwing [VERB in past tense].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “redwing” in a Sentence
adjective
American English
- He collected Redwing pottery.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in ornithology, ecology, and zoology papers.
Everyday
Rare, except among birdwatchers.
Technical
Specific to biological taxonomy and field guides.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “redwing”
- Writing it as two words: 'red wing'.
- Capitalising it when not referring to the proper noun (the city).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency, specialist term primarily used in ornithology.
Yes, when referring to the city of Red Wing, Minnesota, or specific brands/organisations (e.g., Red Wing Shoes). The bird name is not capitalised.
The bird *Turdus iliacus* is a rare vagrant to North America. The term in the US is more commonly associated with the city or brands.
The reddish-orange colouring on its flanks and under its wings.
A type of thrush (Turdus iliacus) with reddish-orange underwing feathers and flanks.
Redwing is usually specialist (ornithology), literary/poetic, toponymic. in register.
Redwing: in British English it is pronounced /ˈrɛdwɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈrɛdˌwɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember the RED under its WING: red-wing.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'redwing'?