Ciconiform

/ˌsɪkəˈnɪfɔːrm/ adjective

Definition

Having the form or shape of a stork; resembling a stork in appearance.

Etymology

From Latin 'ciconia' (stork) combined with '-form' from Latin 'forma' meaning shape or form. This creates a descriptive term for anything shaped like a stork.

Kelly Says

The suffix '-form' means shaped like, so 'ciconiform' describes anything with a stork-like silhouette—long legs, long neck, pointed beak—which scientists use to group similar-looking birds even if they're not closely related evolutionarily.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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