Birdglue

/ˈbɜrdˌɡlu/ noun

Definition

A sticky substance applied to branches or twigs to trap birds; used historically for capturing wild birds or as a pest control method.

Etymology

'Bird' combined with 'glue,' a compound describing the functional purpose. Historical birdglue was made from plant resins and was used from medieval times through the 19th century as a bird-catching method.

Kelly Says

Birdglue was made from plant resins like mistletoe berries, which is why mistletoe became associated with Christmas romance—the plant was so notorious for trapping birds that it became a symbol of being 'caught' or trapped, accidentally giving us one of our sweetest holiday traditions.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.