Grackle

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈɡrækl/

Definitions

• A type of bird in the family Icteridae, characterized by its glossy black feathers and harsh, metallic call.
• Informally, used to describe a person who is loud, unpleasant, or aggressive in demeanor.

Usage Examples

• The grackle perched on the telephone wire, its iridescent feathers gleaming in the sun.
• The grackles in the park made such a racket that it was hard to focus.
• Her grackle-like behavior at the meeting was disruptive and unprofessional.

Etymology

First recorded in the mid-18th century, the word "grackle" comes from the Latin "gracula," which means a kind of crow, derived from "graculus," meaning "a jackdaw" or "small crow."

Synonyms

• Blackbird
• Crow
• Starling
• Raven

Antonyms

• Dove
• Sparrow
• Finch
• Canary

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In English, pronounced /ˈɡrækl/ across most dialects.
• In Spanish, "grackle" is pronounced /ˈɡɾakle/ with the "r" rolling slightly.
• In Russian, the pronunciation /ˈɡrɑkl/ is common, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "grackle" has been used since the 17th century to describe a variety of iridescent blackbirds. In the U.S., it is most commonly associated with the species Quiscalus quiscula, which is widespread in the eastern part of the country. The word "grackle" has evolved to sometimes describe any blackbird with a harsh call.

Cultural Nuances

Grackles are often considered a nuisance in urban areas due to their loud calls and scavenging habits. In some cultures, they are seen as symbols of resourcefulness, while in others, they are viewed negatively for their aggressive behavior. They are also featured in various folk tales and songs, often symbolizing independence or mischief.

More Information

The grackle is a member of the icterid family, which also includes blackbirds, cowbirds, and meadowlarks. Known for their glossy plumage and distinctive metallic calls, grackles are common in North America. They are omnivorous and highly adaptable, often seen in urban environments where they forage for food. Grackles tend to form large, noisy flocks, and are especially active during the breeding season.