Pronunciation: [bˈʌzəd] (IPA) 
The spelling of "buzzard" is often confusing due to its pronunciation. The word is pronounced as /ˈbʌzərd/ with the stress on the first syllable. The phonetic transcription shows that the word has a short 'u' sound followed by the consonant sound /z/ and then the schwa sound /ə/. The final 'ard' is pronounced as /ərd/, which is similar to 'herd'. The word is a common name for a bird of prey, typically with broad wings and a broad head.
A buzzard is a bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae commonly found in various regions around the world. It is typically characterized by its large body size and broad wingspan. Buzzards are known for their keen sense of vision, enabling them to locate and catch their prey while soaring in the sky. These birds exhibit a variety of physical appearances, with some species displaying distinctive color patterns or feather markings.
Buzzards are primarily carnivorous and rely on their predatory nature to feed on a diverse range of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and carrion. They often take advantage of thermal updrafts to effortlessly soar above the ground, scanning for potential prey. Buzzards are opportunistic hunters, and their diet may vary depending on the availability of food sources in their habitat.
In terms of behavior, buzzards are generally solitary birds, although they may gather in small groups when food is abundant. They build nests in trees or on cliffs and lay a clutch of eggs during breeding season, which is incubated by both parents. The development of the young birds is heavily supported by their parents until they are capable of hunting independently.
Buzzards play a significant ecological role by contributing to the balance of various ecosystems. Their presence helps control populations of small mammals and prevent the spread of diseases by feeding on carrion. Due to their adaptability, buzzards are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and mountainous regions, making them an integral part of the natural landscape.
• Senseless; stupid.
• A species of hawk; a blockhead or dunce.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "buzzard" has an interesting etymology. It was originally derived from the Old French word "buisard" or "buissart", which came from the Late Latin "buteo" meaning "a kind of hawk". The term "buteo" itself may have roots in an imitation of the sound that hawks make. Over time, the word "buzard" or "buzzard" emerged in Middle English to refer specifically to a type of bird of prey, which is now known as the common buzzard (Buteo buteo). The term has since been used to describe various species of birds in different regions, often referring to birds with similar predatory characteristics.
