Chapter VI

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

the property of a more than adequate quantity or supply

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

from one side of something to the other

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

later than; following

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

the residue that remains when something is burned

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

a statute in draft before it becomes law

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

plural of “bird” — warm-blooded egg-laying vertebrates characterized by feathers and forelimbs modified as wings

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

being of the achromatic color of maximum darkness; having little or no hue owing to absorption of almost all incident light

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

of the color intermediate between green and violet; having a color similar to that of a clear unclouded sky

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

(used in the plural) a percussion instrument consisting of a pair of hollow pieces of wood or bone (usually held between the thumb and fingers) that are made to click together (as by Spanish dancers) in rhythm with the dance

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

plural of “butcher” — a retailer of meat

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

any of numerous trees of the family Cupressaceae that resemble cedars

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

either side of the face below the eyes

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

plural of “child” — a young person of either sex

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

belonging to or participated in by a community as a whole; public

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

obvious to the eye or mind

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

provide with a covering or cause to be covered

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

the process of becoming hard or solid by cooling or drying or crystallization

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

beyond or deviating from the usual or expected

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

accepted or habitual practice

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

unlike in nature or quality or form or degree

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

operate or control a vehicle

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

take in solid food

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

either extremity of something that has length

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

divisible by two

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

join tongue and groove, in carpentry

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

plural of “feather” — the light horny waterproof structure forming the external covering of birds

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

United States comedian and film actor (1880-1946)

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

the general atmosphere of a place or situation and the effect that it has on people

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

the soft tissue of the body of a vertebrate: mainly muscle tissue and fat

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

(theater) the space over the stage (out of view of the audience) used to store scenery (drop curtains)

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

a neutral achromatic color midway between white and black

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

an established custom

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

decoration that is hung (as a tapestry) on a wall or over a window

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

of comparatively great physical weight or density

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

fasten with a hook

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

third-person singular of “improve” — to make better

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

possessive form of “jay” — United States diplomat and jurist who negotiated peace treaties with Britain and served as the first chief justice of the United States Supreme Court (1745-1829)

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

an event that causes someone to die

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

a supply of food especially for a household

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

a formation of people or things one beside another

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

a stupid person; these words are used to express a low opinion of someone's intelligence

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

plural of “look” — the feelings expressed on a person's face

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

the flesh of animals (including fishes and birds and snails) used as food

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

plural of “mouse” — any of numerous small rodents typically resembling diminutive rats having pointed snouts and small ears on elongated bodies with slender usually hairless tails

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

an area that is approximately central within some larger region

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

long-tailed grey-and-white songbird of the southern United States able to mimic songs of other birds

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

used to form the superlative

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

the opening through which food is taken in and vocalizations emerge

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

a condition requiring relief

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

and not; used after a negative to add a second negative

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

in or characteristic of a region of the United States north of (approximately) the Mason-Dixon line

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

and nothing more

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

the local environment

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

of a white the color of pearls

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

having great power or force or potency or effect

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

a person who is the aim of an attack (especially a victim of ridicule or exploitation) by some hostile person or influence

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

of or relating to or resembling or expressed in a proverb

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

past form of “provide” — give something useful or necessary to

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

to a degree (not used with a negative)

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

(of weather) wet by periods of rain

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

plural of “robin” — small Old World songbird with a reddish breast

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

(of fluids) moving or issuing in a stream

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

express in words

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

a variable color that is vivid red but sometimes with an orange tinge

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

perception by means of the eyes

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

a structure that provides privacy and protection from danger

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

any of numerous Old World birds having a strong hooked bill that feed on smaller animals

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

the physical magnitude of something (how big it is)

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

small or little relative to something else

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

precipitation falling from clouds in the form of ice crystals

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

doubtful or suspect

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

a short musical composition with words

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

in or characteristic of a region of the United States south of (approximately) the Mason-Dixon line

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

be hungry; go without food

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

plural of “state” — the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

-ing form of “store” — keep or lay aside for future use

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

plural of “storm” — a violent weather condition with winds 64-72 knots (11 on the Beaufort scale) and precipitation and thunder and lightning

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

having strength or power greater than average or expected

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

the posterior part of the body of a vertebrate especially when elongated and extending beyond the trunk or main part of the body

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

any of numerous New World woodland birds having brightly colored males

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

shedding tears

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

a tendency to express warm and affectionate feeling

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

in or at that place or location

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

careful and diligent in the use of resources

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.

a cunning or deceitful action or device

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

being of use or service

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

possessive form of “victim” — an unfortunate person who suffers from some adverse circumstance

From this reading His powerful head, which is large for his size, has a heavy black line running from the end of his mouth across his cheek, and his strong bill has a hook on the end which is useful in tearing the {80} flesh from his victim's bones.

brown velvety-plumaged songbirds of the northern hemisphere having crested heads and red waxy wing tips

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

used to ask for information about something

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

in or at the place that

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading They are butchers, with the thrifty custom of hanging up their meat, which only improves in flavour and tenderness after a day or two of curing.

a Caucasian

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

a means of flight or ascent

From this reading In the Southern and Middle States, where the smaller loggerhead shrike is most common, some children say he looks like a mockingbird; but the feathers on his back are surely quite a different gray, a light-bluish ash, and pearly on his under parts, with white in his black wings and tail which is conspicuous as he flies.

in the company of; together with

From this reading BIRDS NOT OF A FEATHER Two Butcher-birds Cedar Waxwing Scarlet Tanager {77} {78} {79} THE BUTCHER-BIRDS OR SHRIKES Is it not curious that among our so-called song birds there should be two, about the size of robins, the loggerhead and the northern shrike, with the hawk-like habit of killing little birds and mice, and the squirrel's and blue jay's trick of storing what they cannot eat?

be worried, concerned, anxious, troubled, or uneasy

From this reading Then, even if storms should drive their little prey to shelter and snow should cover the fields, they need not worry nor starve seeing an abundance in their larder provided for the proverbial rainy day.