Skip to content

lyrebird

noun

Meaning

Either of two Australian ground birds, the male of which has a long lyre-shaped tail and is a remarkable mimic.

Example

We heard a lyrebird copying a chainsaw in the forest.

Origin

From the lyre-like shape of the male's tail.

Variants

lyre-bird

Nearby words

lunatic soupAlcohol, especially cheap or strong drink.
lunch orderAn order for lunch from the school canteen, traditionally written on a paper bag with the money inside and…
lurkA scheme, dodge or racket, especially a clever way of getting an advantage.
lurk manA person who lives by schemes and dodges; a smooth operator always on the lookout for an easy advantage.
MaboThe 1992 High Court decision that recognised native title to land and rejected the idea that Australia had…
macadamiaA rainforest tree native to Queensland and northern New South Wales, or its round, hard-shelled edible nut…
MaccaA nickname for someone whose surname begins with Mac- or Mc-.
MaccasMcDonald's, the fast-food chain, or food bought there.

All L words →