Pronunciation: [pˈɜːt͡ʃə] (IPA) 
The word "percher" can be a bit tricky to spell. It follows a common pattern in English where the letter 'ch' is used to represent the sound /tʃ/. In IPA phonetic transcription, this sound is written as /tʃ/. In "percher," the 'ch' is followed by the letter 'er,' which makes the sound /ər/. This sound is represented in IPA as /ər/. So, the correct way to spell "percher" is with 'ch' followed by 'er': PERCHER /pɜːtʃər/.
Percher is derived from the verb "perch" and refers to someone or something that perches or rests on a high or elevated position. In its most literal sense, a percher is a bird or any creature that habitually sits or roosts on a branch, wire, or other high surface. This term can also be extended to describe a type of bird belonging to the family Passeridae, known for their behavior of perching on trees or buildings.
Figuratively, the word percher is also used to describe a person who seeks higher or elevated positions in society, often through strategic networking, ambition, or social climbing. Such individuals may be motivated by a desire for increased status, prestige, or influence. A percher, in this sense, may be characterized by their persistent efforts to move up in social hierarchies or gain recognition within a particular group or community.
In a broader context, the term percher can be employed metaphorically to depict anything or anyone that is situated on or supported by an elevated or higher position. This could range from objects like a hat percher, which is an accessory that rests upon a woman's head, to plants that grow on higher surfaces like epiphytes or air plants. Additionally, the term percher can also be used as an adjective to describe the act of perching or the quality of being a percher, further emphasizing the notion of elevation and positioning.
One of an order of birds, the perchers, that perch or light on trees.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "percher" originates from the Old French verb "percher", which means "to perch". It is derived from the Latin word "perticāre", which means "to put on a pole" or "to perch". The Latin term is derived from the noun "pertica", meaning "pole" or "rod". Over time, "percher" evolved into the noun form to refer to someone who perches or sits on a high place, typically a bird, and then extended to describe humans taking a high position as well.
