YARDBIRD Meaning and
Definition
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Yardbird is a noun that has multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. Originally, it referred to a slang term used in African American vernacular during the 1940s to describe a jailed person or a convict. However, throughout the years, the term has evolved and acquired various interpretations.
One common definition of yardbird is a slang term used to refer to a military recruit who has recently joined the army. It portrays the idea of someone "fresh off the yard" or newly recruited into military service. In this context, yardbird carries a connotation of inexperience or naivety within military ranks.
In a different sense, yardbird can also refer to a person who is considered eccentric, peculiar, or unusual in some way. This definition often denotes someone who stands out from the crowd due to their odd behavior or unconventional style.
Additionally, yardbird may also be used to describe a species of bird known as the "American Woodcock" or "Scolopax minor." This migratory bird is commonly found in North America, inhabiting forests and wetlands.
Overall, the interpretations of yardbird vary depending on the context. It can refer to a convict, a new military recruit, an eccentric individual, or a specific bird species. The specific meaning of yardbird should be determined based on the context in which the term is used.
Common Misspellings for YARDBIRD
Etymology of YARDBIRD
The word "yardbird" originated in the United States, specifically in African American Vernacular English (AAVE). It is derived from the words "yard" and "bird". In AAVE, the term "yard" refers to a prison or a correctional facility. "Bird" is a colloquial term used to describe a person, often implying innocence or naïveté. Therefore, "yardbird" was initially used to refer to a prisoner or someone incarcerated in a correctional facility. Over time, the term has also been used informally to refer to a person who is inexperienced or out of their element in a particular situation.
