precocial

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of precocial Comparison with avian brain evolution suggests that placental brain size should be constrained due to placentals’ relative precociality, as has been hypothesized for precocial bird hatchlings. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 10 Sep. 2010 Ducks are what scientists call precocial birds — capable of feeding, swimming and walking soon after hatching. New York Times, 22 June 2022 Godwits and most other ground nesters, on the other hand, are precocial birds. Jim Robbins, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Jan. 2022 Game birds, precocial, have larger clutches because the young, feathered and out of the nest upon hatching, are more subject to predation. Jim Williams, Star Tribune, 29 June 2021 The opposite are precocial birds, birds that hatch with feathers and are mobile and ready to go shortly after emerging from the egg. Anna Thomas Bates, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 28 June 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for precocial
Adjective
  • Imagine never stepping out of your bedroom and being totally dependent on your parents for everything.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2025
  • New trade relationships that are less dependent on the U.S. market may emerge, too.
    Mariana Mazzucato, Foreign Affairs, 25 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Fungi like Cryptococcus and parasites or amoebas can cause fungal meningitis or parasitic meningitis.
    Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 31 Jan. 2025
  • It is also advised to avoid feeding dogs raw meat because bacterial and parasitic contamination can pose a health risk for dogs and humans.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 30 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Collins and Cohen had a symbiotic artistic friendship.
    Sarah Larson, The New Yorker, 24 Feb. 2025
  • In the ensuing years, his companies have developed a symbiotic relationship with federal programs, turning him into more of a vampire.
    Alan Ohnsman, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025

Browse Nearby Entries

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Precocial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/precocial. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!