trochilus

noun

troch·​i·​lus

-kələs

1

plural trochili

-kəˌlī

a

: crocodile bird

b

: any of several Old World warblers (as the goldcrest or the willow warbler)

c

: hummingbird

2

capitalized : a formerly extensive genus of hummingbirds that is usually restricted to a long-tailed Jamaican hummingbird (T. polytmus)

3

plural trochili : scotia

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, a small bird, perhaps the golden-crested kinglet, from Greek trochilos crocodile bird, wren; akin to Greek trechein to run

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now