Woodpecker

/ˈwʊdˌpɛkər/ noun

Definition

A bird with a strong beak that pecks at tree trunks to find insects or make holes. It often makes a loud tapping sound.

Etymology

A compound of 'wood' and 'pecker', from 'peck' (to strike with the beak). The name describes exactly what the bird does.

Kelly Says

Many animal names in English are plain little stories: 'wood-pecker' is literally 'the one who pecks wood.' Once you notice this pattern, lots of names suddenly make more sense.

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