macaw meaning: definition, etymology

macaw

noun

UK /məˈkɔː/ · US /məˈkɑ/

Etymology From Portuguese macau, of unknown origin. English sources point to Nheengatu makawana, which is only attested from the 20th century onwards.

Any of various parrots of the genera Ara, Anodorhynchus, Cyanopsitta, Orthopsittaca, Primolius and Diopsittaca of Central and South America, including the largest parrots and characterized by long sabre-shaped tails, curved powerful bills, and usually brilliant plumage.

Derived terms: blue-and-gold macaw, blue-and-yellow macaw, blue-winged macaw, Cuban red macaw, great green macaw, hyacinth macaw, macaw bush, macaw fat, macaw palm, military macaw, red-and-green macaw, scarlet macaw