How Do You Spell QUEZAL?

Pronunciation: [kwˈɛzə͡l] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "quezal" can be confusing because it's not a term commonly used in English. The correct pronunciation of "quezal" is /ke-SAL/. It refers to a species of bird native to Central America, particularly known for its colorful plumage. The word's spelling comes from the Nahuatl language, which was spoken by the Aztecs. While "quezal" might not be a familiar word to everyone, it's interesting to learn about its origin and significance in the wildlife of Central America.

QUEZAL Meaning and Definition

1. A quetzal is a noun referring to a colorful tropical bird found predominantly in Central and South American rainforests. It is also the national bird of Guatemala. The term "quezal" derives from the Nahuatl (an Aztec language) word "quetzalli," which translates to "precious feather" or "bright plumage."

   Physically, quetzals possess vibrant, iridescent green feathers on their backs, while their chests and bellies consist of a pale shade of green or yellow. Males possess long tail feathers that can reach impressive lengths, sometimes exceeding three feet. These tail feathers are often sought after for their beauty and are historically revered as symbols of wealth and prestige in indigenous cultures.

   In addition to their striking appearance, quetzals are renowned for their unique behaviors. They have a preference for high-altitude cloud forests, where they dwell in the canopy and feed primarily on fruit, insects, and small vertebrates. Quetzals are known for their characteristic graceful flight patterns and elusive nature, making them a sought-after sighting for birdwatchers.

   Moreover, the term "quezal" can also refer to the currency of several countries. It was the currency unit of Guatemala from 1925 to 2001, and it is currently the unit of currency in Costa Rica. This usage showcases the cultural significance of the bird, as their feathers were traditionally used as a form of currency in ancient Mesoamerican societies.

Common Misspellings for QUEZAL

• 1uezal
• 2uezal
• wuezal
• auezal
• qyezal
• qhezal
• qjezal
• qiezal
• q8ezal
• q7ezal
• quwzal
• quszal
• qudzal
• qurzal
• qu4zal
• qu3zal
• quexal
• quesal
• queaal
• quezzl

Etymology of QUEZAL

The term "quezal" originates from the Nahuatl language spoken by the Aztecs. In Nahuatl, the word for "tail feather" is "quetzalli". The quetzal, a strikingly beautiful bird found in Central America, possesses vibrant, long tail feathers which were highly prized by the Aztecs and other indigenous groups. Thus, the word "quezal" can be traced back to Nahuatl and refers to this significant bird and its feathers.

Plural form of QUEZAL is QUEZALES