flamingo
UK[fləˈmɪŋɡəʊ]US[fləˈmɪŋɡoʊ]
n
a tall wading bird with mainly pink or scarlet plumage, long legs, and a long, flexible neck.
Etymology
the word 'flamingo' entered english in the 16th century from portuguese 'flamengo'. the portuguese term derived from spanish 'flamenco', which itself likely came from the old provençal word 'flamenc'. this provençal word meant both 'flamingo' and 'fleming' (a person from flanders). the connection is thought to be metaphorical, linking the vibrant red plumage of the bird to the ruddy complexion or brightly colored clothing stereotypically associated with flemish people. ultimately, the term traces back to a proto-germanic root related to flame, highlighting the persistent association with the color of fire.
Analysis
this word is a loanword adopted as a single, unanalyzable unit in english.
Examples
a flock of flamingos stood gracefully on one leg in the shallow water.
the flamingo's distinctive pink color comes from the carotenoids in its diet of shrimp and algae.
we visited a sanctuary where we could observe flamingos in their natural habitat.