Tern

usgb/tɜːrn/
noun

A type of bird that is related to the sea gull, but is smaller and spends most of its life flying over the sea.

Terns are known for their long-distance migrations.
Visual representation of "tern" - A type of bird that is related to the sea gull, but is smaller and spends most of its life flying over the sea

Often appears as...

  • arctic tern
  • common tern
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "tern"
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Habitat Clue

Terns are mostly associated with marine environments, indicating coastal or open ocean scenes in texts.

Illustration for Habitat Clue
We walked by the shore, watching the terns dive into the sea.
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Migration Mention

Mention of terns can suggest themes of travel or migration, reflecting their real-life long-distance journeys.

Illustration for Migration Mention
Like the arctic terns, she had an unending thirst for travel.
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Comparative Use

Terns are often compared to sea gulls to highlight differences, such as size or behaviors, in various contexts.

Illustration for Comparative Use
Unlike the squabbling sea gulls, the terns soared gracefully overhead.
Visual representation of the word "Tern"

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